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Sallard E, Fischer J, Schroeer K, Dawson LM, Beaude N, Affes A, Ehrke-Schulz E, Zhang W, Westhaus A, Cabanes-Creus M, Lisowski L, Ruszics Z, Ehrhardt A. ADEVO: Proof-of-concept of adenovirus-directed EVOlution by random peptide display on the fiber knob. MOLECULAR THERAPY. ONCOLOGY 2024; 32:200867. [PMID: 39346764 PMCID: PMC11439537 DOI: 10.1016/j.omton.2024.200867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
Directed evolution of viral vectors involves the generation of randomized libraries followed by artificial selection of improved variants. Directed evolution only yielded limited results in adenovirus (AdV) engineering until now, mainly due to insufficient complexities of randomized libraries. Meanwhile, clinical applications of AdVs as gene therapy or oncolytic vectors are still hampered by the predetermined tropism of natural types. To overcome this challenge, we hypothesized that randomized peptide insertions on the capsid surface can be incorporated into the AdV bioengineering toolbox for retargeting. Here we developed AdV-directed EVOlution protocols based on fiber knob peptide display. Human AdV-C5-derived libraries were constructed following three distinct protocols and selected on a panel of cancer cell lines, with the goal of identifying variants able to infect and lyse these tumor cells more efficiently. All protocols enabled the construction of high complexity libraries with up to 9.6 × 105 unique variants, an approximate 100-fold improvement compared with previously published AdV libraries. After selection, the most enriched variants, which were robustly selected in various cancer cell lines, did not display enhanced infectivity but rather more efficient replication and cell lysis. Selected inserts also conferred enhanced lysis ability to oncolytic AdVs restricted to telomerase-expressing cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erwan Sallard
- Virology and Microbiology, Centre for Biomedical Education & Research (ZBAF), Faculty of Health, Witten/Herdecke University, 58453 Witten, Germany
| | - Julian Fischer
- Institute of Virology, Faculty of Medicine, University Medical Center Freiburg, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Katrin Schroeer
- Virology and Microbiology, Centre for Biomedical Education & Research (ZBAF), Faculty of Health, Witten/Herdecke University, 58453 Witten, Germany
| | - Lisa-Marie Dawson
- Virology and Microbiology, Centre for Biomedical Education & Research (ZBAF), Faculty of Health, Witten/Herdecke University, 58453 Witten, Germany
| | - Nissai Beaude
- Virology and Microbiology, Centre for Biomedical Education & Research (ZBAF), Faculty of Health, Witten/Herdecke University, 58453 Witten, Germany
- AgroParisTech, Paris-Saclay University, Palaiseau, France
| | - Arsalene Affes
- Virology and Microbiology, Centre for Biomedical Education & Research (ZBAF), Faculty of Health, Witten/Herdecke University, 58453 Witten, Germany
- AgroParisTech, Paris-Saclay University, Palaiseau, France
| | - Eric Ehrke-Schulz
- Virology and Microbiology, Centre for Biomedical Education & Research (ZBAF), Faculty of Health, Witten/Herdecke University, 58453 Witten, Germany
| | - Wenli Zhang
- Virology and Microbiology, Centre for Biomedical Education & Research (ZBAF), Faculty of Health, Witten/Herdecke University, 58453 Witten, Germany
| | - Adrian Westhaus
- Translational Vectorology Research Unit, Children’s Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Marti Cabanes-Creus
- Translational Vectorology Research Unit, Children’s Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Leszek Lisowski
- Translational Vectorology Research Unit, Children’s Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
- Australian Genome Therapeutics Centre, Children’s Medical Research Institute and Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
- Military Institute of Medicine – National Research Institute, Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Innovative Therapies, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Zsolt Ruszics
- Institute of Virology, Faculty of Medicine, University Medical Center Freiburg, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Anja Ehrhardt
- Virology and Microbiology, Centre for Biomedical Education & Research (ZBAF), Faculty of Health, Witten/Herdecke University, 58453 Witten, Germany
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2
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Xing T, Li S, Tang S, Huang Y, Liu G, Yan Y, Liu D, Wang S, Zhi L, Shameem M, Li N. Distinct chemical degradation pathways of AAV1 and AAV8 under thermal stress conditions revealed by analytical anion exchange chromatography and LC-MS-based peptide mapping. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2024; 251:116452. [PMID: 39217700 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2024.116452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2024] [Revised: 08/23/2024] [Accepted: 08/24/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based gene therapy is experiencing a rapid growth in the field of medicine and holds great promise in combating a wide range of human diseases. For successful development of AAV-based products, comprehensive thermal stability studies are often required to establish storage conditions and shelf life. However, as a relatively new modality, limited studies have been reported to elucidate the chemical degradation pathways of AAV products under thermal stress conditions. In this study, we first presented an intriguing difference in charge profile shift between thermally stressed AAV8 and AAV1 capsids when analyzed by anion exchange chromatography. Subsequently, a novel and robust peptide mapping protocol was developed and applied to elucidate the underlying chemical degradation pathways of thermally stressed AAV8 and AAV1. Compared to the conventional therapeutic proteins, the unique structure of AAV capsids also led to some key differences in how modifications at specific sites may impact the overall charge properties. Finally, despite the high sequency identity, the analysis revealed that the opposite charge profile shifts between thermally stressed AAV8 and AAV1 could be mainly attributed to a single modification unique to each serotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Xing
- Analytical Chemistry Group, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Tarrytown, New York 10591-6707, United States
| | - Shuai Li
- Formulation Development Group, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Tarrytown, New York 10591-6707, United States
| | - Shuli Tang
- Analytical Chemistry Group, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Tarrytown, New York 10591-6707, United States
| | - Yu Huang
- Analytical Chemistry Group, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Tarrytown, New York 10591-6707, United States
| | - Gaoyuan Liu
- Analytical Chemistry Group, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Tarrytown, New York 10591-6707, United States
| | - Yuetian Yan
- Analytical Chemistry Group, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Tarrytown, New York 10591-6707, United States
| | - Dingjiang Liu
- Formulation Development Group, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Tarrytown, New York 10591-6707, United States
| | - Shunhai Wang
- Analytical Chemistry Group, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Tarrytown, New York 10591-6707, United States.
| | - Li Zhi
- Formulation Development Group, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Tarrytown, New York 10591-6707, United States.
| | - Mohammed Shameem
- Formulation Development Group, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Tarrytown, New York 10591-6707, United States
| | - Ning Li
- Analytical Chemistry Group, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Tarrytown, New York 10591-6707, United States
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3
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Wang Y, Jiang H, Li M, Xu Z, Xu H, Chen Y, Chen K, Zheng W, Lin W, Liu Z, Lin Z, Zhang M. Delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 system by AAV as vectors for gene therapy. Gene 2024; 927:148733. [PMID: 38945310 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
The adeno-associated virus (AAV) is a defective single-stranded DNA virus with the simplest structure reported to date. It constitutes a capsid protein and single-stranded DNA. With its high transduction efficiency, low immunogenicity, and tissue specificity, it is the most widely used and promising gene therapy vector. The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic sequence (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) gene editing system is an emerging technology that utilizes cas9 nuclease to specifically recognize and cleave target genes under the guidance of small guide RNA and realizes gene editing through homologous directional repair and non-homologous recombination repair. In recent years, an increasing number of animal experiments and clinical studies have revealed the great potential of AAV as a vector to deliver the CRISPR/cas9 system for treating genetic diseases and viral infections. However, the immunogenicity, toxicity, low transmission efficiency in brain and ear tissues, packaging size limitations of AAV, and immunogenicity and off-target effects of Cas9 protein pose several clinical challenges. This research reviews the role, challenges, and countermeasures of the AAV-CRISPR/cas9 system in gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Wang
- Department of Neonatology, The Second School of Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Department of Anesthesiology, 1st Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; The Second School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Haibin Jiang
- The Second School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Mopu Li
- The Second School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zidi Xu
- The Second School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hang Xu
- The First School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuetong Chen
- The First School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Kepei Chen
- Department of Neonatology, The Second School of Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Perinatal Medicine of Wenzhou, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Pediatric Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Weihong Zheng
- Department of Neonatology, The Second School of Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Perinatal Medicine of Wenzhou, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Pediatric Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wei Lin
- Department of Neonatology, The Second School of Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Perinatal Medicine of Wenzhou, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Pediatric Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhiming Liu
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.
| | - Zhenlang Lin
- Department of Neonatology, The Second School of Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Perinatal Medicine of Wenzhou, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Pediatric Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Min Zhang
- Department of Neonatology, The Second School of Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Perinatal Medicine of Wenzhou, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Pediatric Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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4
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Ji L, Huang J, Yu L, Jin H, Hu X, Sun Y, Yin F, Cai Y. Recent advances in nanoagents delivery system-based phototherapy for osteosarcoma treatment. Int J Pharm 2024; 665:124633. [PMID: 39187032 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.124633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 08/09/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is a prevalent and highly malignant bone tumor, characterized by its aggressive nature, invasiveness, and rapid progression, contributing to a high mortality rate, particularly among adolescents. Traditional treatment modalities, including surgical resection, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, face significant challenges, especially in addressing chemotherapy resistance and managing postoperative recurrence and metastasis. Phototherapy (PT), encompassing photodynamic therapy (PDT) and photothermal therapy (PTT), offers unique advantages such as low toxicity, minimal drug resistance, selective destruction, and temporal control, making it a promising approach for the clinical treatment of various malignant tumors. Constructing multifunctional delivery systems presents an opportunity to effectively combine tumor PDT, PTT, and chemotherapy, creating a synergistic anti-tumor effect. This review aims to consolidate the progress in the application of novel delivery system-mediated phototherapy in osteosarcoma. By summarizing advancements in this field, the objective is to propose a rational combination therapy involving targeted delivery systems and phototherapy for tumors, thereby expanding treatment options and enhancing the prognosis for osteosarcoma patients. In conclusion, the integration of innovative delivery systems with phototherapy represents a promising avenue in osteosarcoma treatment, offering a comprehensive approach to overcome challenges associated with conventional treatments and improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lichen Ji
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China; Center for Rehabilitation Medicine Rehabilitation & Sports Medicine Research Institute of Zhejiang Province Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310014, China; Department of Joint Surgery, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Jiaqing Huang
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China; Center for Rehabilitation Medicine Rehabilitation & Sports Medicine Research Institute of Zhejiang Province Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310014, China; Department of Hematology, Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Liting Yu
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Huihui Jin
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China; Center for Rehabilitation Medicine Rehabilitation & Sports Medicine Research Institute of Zhejiang Province Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Xuanhan Hu
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China; Center for Rehabilitation Medicine Rehabilitation & Sports Medicine Research Institute of Zhejiang Province Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Yuan Sun
- College of Chemistry Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China.
| | - Feng Yin
- Department of Joint Surgery, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| | - Yu Cai
- Center for Rehabilitation Medicine Rehabilitation & Sports Medicine Research Institute of Zhejiang Province Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310014, China.
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5
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O'Donnell M, Fontaine A, Caldwell J, Weir R. Direct dorsal root ganglia (DRG) injection in mice for analysis of adeno-associated viral (AAV) gene transfer to peripheral somatosensory neurons. J Neurosci Methods 2024; 411:110268. [PMID: 39191304 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2024.110268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Delivering optogenetic genes to the peripheral sensory nervous system provides an efficient approach to study and treat neurological disorders and offers the potential to reintroduce sensory feedback to prostheses users and those who have incurred other neuropathies. Adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors are a common method of gene delivery due to efficiency of gene transfer and minimal toxicity. AAVs are capable of being designed to target specific tissues, with transduction efficacy determined through the combination of serotype and genetic promoter selection, as well as location of vector administration. The dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) are collections of cell bodies of sensory neurons which project from the periphery to the central nervous system (CNS). The anatomical make-up of DRGs make them an ideal injection location to target the somatosensory neurons in the peripheral nervous system (PNS). COMPARISON TO EXISTING METHODS Previous studies have detailed methods of direct DRG injection in rats and dorsal horn injection in mice, however, due to the size and anatomical differences between rats and strains of mice, there is only one other published method for AAV injection into murine DRGs for transduction of peripheral sensory neurons using a different methodology. NEW METHOD/RESULTS Here, we detail the necessary materials and methods required to inject AAVs into the L3 and L4 DRGs of mice, as well as how to harvest the sciatic nerve and L3/L4 DRGs for analysis. This methodology results in optogenetic expression in both the L3/L4 DRGs and sciatic nerve and can be adapted to inject any DRG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael O'Donnell
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Colorado - Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
| | - Arjun Fontaine
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Colorado - Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - John Caldwell
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado - Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Richard Weir
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Colorado - Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
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6
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Destro F, Wu W, Srinivasan P, Joseph J, Bal V, Neufeld C, Wolfrum JM, Manalis SR, Sinskey AJ, Springs SL, Barone PW, Braatz RD. The state of technological advancement to address challenges in the manufacture of rAAV gene therapies. Biotechnol Adv 2024; 76:108433. [PMID: 39168354 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2024.108433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
Current processes for the production of recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) are inadequate to meet the surging demand for rAAV-based gene therapies. This article reviews recent advances that hold the potential to address current limitations in rAAV manufacturing. A multidisciplinary perspective on technological progress in rAAV production is presented, underscoring the necessity to move beyond incremental refinements and adopt a holistic strategy to address existing challenges. Since several recent reviews have thoroughly covered advancements in upstream technology, this article provides only a concise overview of these developments before moving to pivotal areas of rAAV manufacturing not well covered in other reviews, including analytical technologies for rapid and high-throughput measurement of rAAV quality attributes, mathematical modeling for platform and process optimization, and downstream approaches to maximize efficiency and rAAV yield. Novel technologies that have the potential to address the current gaps in rAAV manufacturing are highlighted. Implementation challenges and future research directions are critically discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Destro
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Weida Wu
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Prasanna Srinivasan
- Center for Biomedical Innovation, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - John Joseph
- Center for Biomedical Innovation, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Vivekananda Bal
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Caleb Neufeld
- Center for Biomedical Innovation, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jacqueline M Wolfrum
- Center for Biomedical Innovation, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Scott R Manalis
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Anthony J Sinskey
- Center for Biomedical Innovation, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Stacy L Springs
- Center for Biomedical Innovation, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Paul W Barone
- Center for Biomedical Innovation, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Richard D Braatz
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA; Center for Biomedical Innovation, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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Cheng L, Zhu Y, Ma J, Aggarwal A, Toh WH, Shin C, Sangpachatanaruk W, Weng G, Kumar R, Mao HQ. Machine Learning Elucidates Design Features of Plasmid Deoxyribonucleic Acid Lipid Nanoparticles for Cell Type-Preferential Transfection. ACS NANO 2024. [PMID: 39375194 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c07615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/09/2024]
Abstract
To broaden the accessibility of cell and gene therapies, it is essential to develop and optimize nonviral, cell type-preferential gene carriers such as lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). While high-throughput screening (HTS) approaches have proven effective in accelerating LNP discovery, they are often costly, labor-intensive, and do not consistently yield actionable design rules that direct screening efforts toward the most relevant chemical and formulation parameters. In this study, we employed a machine learning (ML) workflow, utilizing well-curated plasmid DNA LNP transfection data sets across six cell types, to extract compositional and chemical insights from HTS studies. Our approach achieved prediction errors averaging between 5 and 10%, depending on the cell type. By applying SHapley Additive exPlanations to our ML models, we uncovered key composition-function relationships that govern cell type-preferential LNP transfection efficiency. Notably, we identified consistent LNP composition parameters that enhance in vitro transfection efficiency across diverse cell types, including a helper lipid molar percentage of charged lipids between 9 and 50% and the inclusion of cationic/zwitterionic helper lipids. Additionally, several parameters were found to modulate cell type-preferentiality, such as the total molar percentage of ionizable and helper lipids, N/P ratio, PEGylated lipid molar percentage of uncharged lipids, and hydrophobicity of the helper lipid. This study leverages HTS of compositionally diverse LNP libraries combined with ML analysis to elucidate the interactions between lipid components in LNP formulations, providing insights that contribute to the design of LNP compositions tailored for cell type-preferential transfection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Cheng
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21231, United States
| | - Yining Zhu
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21231, United States
| | - Jingyao Ma
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21231, United States
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Whiting School of Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Ataes Aggarwal
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Department of Computer Science, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Wu Han Toh
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21231, United States
- Department of Computer Science, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Charles Shin
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Will Sangpachatanaruk
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Department of Computer Science, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Gene Weng
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21231, United States
- Department of Biophysics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Ramya Kumar
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Hai-Quan Mao
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21231, United States
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Whiting School of Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
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8
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Fukuda M, Takahashi K, Takarada T, Saito S, Tanaka M. Synergistic Effect of Cyclodextrins and Electrolytes at High Concentrations on Protein Aggregation Inhibition. J Pharm Sci 2024:S0022-3549(24)00437-4. [PMID: 39374691 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2024.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2024] [Revised: 09/28/2024] [Accepted: 10/01/2024] [Indexed: 10/09/2024]
Abstract
The stabilization of protein therapeutics against aggregation is crucial for maintaining their efficacy and safety. This study investigated the synergistic effects of cyclodextrins (CDs) and electrolytes at high concentrations on the stabilization of immunoglobulin G (IgG), insulin, and adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors. The effects of 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) combined with various electrolytes were evaluated using human plasma-derived IgG as a model protein. The HP-β-CD and L(+)-arginine hydrochloride combination synergistically increased the onset temperature of protein aggregation and inhibited the formation of soluble and insoluble aggregates during long-term storage. Notably, this synergistic effect was not observed when sucrose was used instead of HP-β-CD. Similar synergistic effects were observed with insulin and AAV vectors. The findings suggest that the stabilization mechanism could potentially involve enhanced interactions between HP-β-CD and IgG, preventing protein-protein interactions. However, the combination did not synergistically improve the solubility of free aromatic amino acids, including tyrosine and tryptophan. This study highlights the potential of using the combination of CDs and electrolytes as a promising formulation strategy for stabilizing complex protein therapeutics. However, further studies are needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and generalize the approach to other proteins with varying physicochemical properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masakazu Fukuda
- Laboratory of Functional Molecular Chemistry, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, 4-19-1, Motoyamakita-machi, Higashinada-ku, Kobe 658-8558, Japan.
| | - Kanako Takahashi
- Medical Business Unit, Synplogen Co., Ltd., 6-3-7-409 Minatojima-Minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Toru Takarada
- Laboratory of Functional Molecular Chemistry, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, 4-19-1, Motoyamakita-machi, Higashinada-ku, Kobe 658-8558, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Saito
- Medical Business Unit, Synplogen Co., Ltd., 6-3-7-409 Minatojima-Minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047, Japan.
| | - Masafumi Tanaka
- Laboratory of Functional Molecular Chemistry, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, 4-19-1, Motoyamakita-machi, Higashinada-ku, Kobe 658-8558, Japan
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9
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Benemei S, Gatto F, Marcucci R, Gresele P. Emerging Thrombotic Disorders Associated with Virus-Based Innovative Therapies: From VITT to AAV Gene Therapy-Related Thrombotic Microangiopathy. Thromb Haemost 2024. [PMID: 39260400 DOI: 10.1055/a-2413-4345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
Gene therapy is a promising therapeutic approach for treating life-threatening disorders. Despite the clinical improvements observed with gene therapy, immune responses either innate or adaptive against the vector used for gene delivery, can affect treatment efficacy and lead to adverse reactions. Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) is a thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS) characterized by microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and small vessel occlusion known to be elicited by several drugs, that has been recently reported as an adverse event of adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based gene therapy. TMA encompasses a heterogenous group of disorders, its classification and underlining mechanisms are still uncertain, and still lacks validated biomarkers. The identification of predictors of TMA, such as vector dose and patient characteristics, is a pressing need to recognize patients at risk before and after AAV-based gene therapy administration. This review aims to explore the literature on TMA associated with AAV-based gene therapy in the larger context of TMA (i.e., hemolytic-uremic syndrome, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, and other drug-related TMAs). Considering the wide attention recently gained by another TTS associated with a non-gene therapy viral platform (adenovirus, AV COVID-19 vaccine), namely vaccine-induced immune thrombocytopenia and thrombosis (VITT), AAV gene therapy-related TMA mechanisms will be discussed and differentiated from those of VITT to avoid recency bias and favor a correct positioning of these two recently emerged syndromes within the heterogenous group of drug-related TTS. Finally, the review will discuss strategies for enhancing the safety and optimize the management of AAV-based gene therapy that is emerging as an efficacious therapeutic option for disparate, severe, and often orphan conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rossella Marcucci
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence and Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Firenze, Italy
| | - Paolo Gresele
- Section of Internal and Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
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10
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Li YJ, Chien SH, Huang R, Herrmann A, Zhao Q, Li PC, Zhang C, Martincuks A, Santiago NL, Zong K, Swiderski P, Okimoto RA, Song M, Rodriguez L, Forman SJ, Wang X, Yu H. A platform to deliver single and bi-specific Cas9/guide RNA to perturb genes in vitro and in vivo. Mol Ther 2024; 32:3629-3649. [PMID: 39091030 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Although CRISPR-Cas9 technology is poised to revolutionize the treatment of diseases with underlying genetic mutations, it faces some significant issues limiting clinical entry. They include low-efficiency in vivo systemic delivery and undesired off-target effects. Here, we demonstrate, by modifying Cas9 with phosphorothioate-DNA oligos (PSs), that one can efficiently deliver single and bi-specific CRISPR-Cas9/guide RNA (gRNA) dimers in vitro and in vivo with reduced off-target effects. We show that PS-Cas9/gRNA-mediated gene knockout preserves chimeric antigen receptor T cell viability and expansion in vitro and in vivo. PS-Cas9/gRNA mediates gene perturbation in patient-derived tumor organoids and mouse xenograft tumors, leading to potent tumor antitumor effects. Further, HER2 antibody-PS-Cas9/gRNA conjugate selectively perturbs targeted genes in HER2+ ovarian cancer xenografts in vivo. Moreover, we created bi-specific PS-Cas9 with two gRNAs to target two adjacent sequences of the same gene, leading to efficient targeted gene disruption ex vivo and in vivo with markedly reduced unintended gene perturbation. Thus, the cell-penetrating PS-Cas9/gRNA can achieve efficient systemic delivery and precision in gene disruption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Jia Li
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute and City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA.
| | - Sheng-Hsuan Chien
- Cellular Immunotherapy Center, Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; Division of Transfusion Medicine, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, and Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11201, Taiwan
| | - Rui Huang
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute and City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Andreas Herrmann
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute and City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Qianqian Zhao
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute and City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Pei-Chuan Li
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute and City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Chunyan Zhang
- Cellular Immunotherapy Center, Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Antons Martincuks
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute and City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Nicole Lugo Santiago
- Department of Surgery, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Katherine Zong
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute and City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Piotr Swiderski
- DNA/RNA Synthesis Laboratory, Beckman Research Institute at City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Ross A Okimoto
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA
| | - Mihae Song
- Department of Surgery, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Lorna Rodriguez
- Department of Surgery, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Stephen J Forman
- Cellular Immunotherapy Center, Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Xiuli Wang
- Cellular Immunotherapy Center, Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Hua Yu
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute and City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA.
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11
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Benatti HR, Anagnostakou V, Taghian T, Hall EF, Nath S, Heilman CB, Beneduce BM, Leporati A, Raskett C, Epshtein M, King R, Gounis MJ, Malek AM, Gray-Edwards HL. A minimally invasive endovascular approach to the cerebellopontine angle cistern enables broad CNS biodistribution of scAAV9-CB-GFP. Mol Ther 2024; 32:3346-3355. [PMID: 39192584 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurological disorders pose a challenge for targeted therapy due to restricted access of therapeutic agents to the central nervous system (CNS). Current methods are limited by procedure-related risks, invasiveness, and insufficient CNS biodistribution. A novel percutaneous transvenous technology, currently in clinical trials for communicating hydrocephalus, offers a minimally invasive approach by providing endovascular access to the cerebrospinal fluid-filled cerebellopontine angle (CPA) cistern. We hypothesized that drug delivery to the CPA cistern could yield widespread CNS distribution. Using an ovine model, we compared the biodistribution of scAAV9-CB-GFP following CPA cistern infusion with previously reported cisterna magna (CM) administration. Targeting both the CPA cistern and CM in sheep, we employed a lumbar spine-inserted microcatheter under fluoroscopy. CPA delivery of AAV9 demonstrated biodistribution and transduction in the cerebral cortices, striatum, thalamus, midbrain, cerebellum, and spinal cord, with minor liver distribution comparable to CM. The favorable safety profile in humans with hydrocephalus suggests that percutaneous endovascular injection into the CPA could offer a clinically safer and minimally invasive delivery system for CNS gene and cell-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hector Ribeiro Benatti
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, UMass Chan Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Vania Anagnostakou
- New England Center for Stroke Research, Department of Radiology, UMass Chan Medical School, 55 N Lake Avenue, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Toloo Taghian
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, UMass Chan Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA; New England Center for Stroke Research, Department of Radiology, UMass Chan Medical School, 55 N Lake Avenue, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Erin F Hall
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, UMass Chan Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Sarah Nath
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, UMass Chan Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Carl B Heilman
- Tufts Medical Center, 800 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | | | - Anita Leporati
- New England Center for Stroke Research, Department of Radiology, UMass Chan Medical School, 55 N Lake Avenue, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Christopher Raskett
- New England Center for Stroke Research, Department of Radiology, UMass Chan Medical School, 55 N Lake Avenue, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Mark Epshtein
- New England Center for Stroke Research, Department of Radiology, UMass Chan Medical School, 55 N Lake Avenue, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Robert King
- New England Center for Stroke Research, Department of Radiology, UMass Chan Medical School, 55 N Lake Avenue, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Matthew J Gounis
- New England Center for Stroke Research, Department of Radiology, UMass Chan Medical School, 55 N Lake Avenue, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Adel M Malek
- Tufts Medical Center, 800 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02111, USA.
| | - Heather L Gray-Edwards
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, UMass Chan Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA; New England Center for Stroke Research, Department of Radiology, UMass Chan Medical School, 55 N Lake Avenue, Worcester, MA 01655, USA.
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12
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Zhang Y, Chen Z, Wang X, Yan R, Bao H, Chu X, Guo L, Wang X, Li Y, Mu Y, He Q, Zhang L, Zhang C, Zhou D, Ji D. Site-specific tethering nanobodies on recombinant adeno-associated virus vectors for retargeted gene therapy. Acta Biomater 2024; 187:304-315. [PMID: 39025389 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2024.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated viruses (rAAVs) have been extensively studied for decades as carriers for delivering therapeutic genes. However, designing rAAV vectors with selective tropism for specific cell types and tissues has remained challenging. Here, we introduce a strategy for redirecting rAAV by attaching nanobodies with desired tropism at specific sites, effectively replacing the original tropism. To demonstrate this concept, we initially modified the genetic code of rAAV2 to introduce an azido-containing unnatural amino acid at a precise site within the capsid protein. Following a screening process, we identified a critical site (N587+1) where the introduction of unnatural amino acid eliminated the natural tropism of rAAV2. Subsequently, we successfully redirected rAAV2 by conjugating various nanobodies at the N587+1 site, using click and SpyTag-Spycatcher chemistries to form nanobody-AAV conjugates (NACs). By investigating the relationship between NACs quantity and effect and optimizing the linker between rAAV2 and the nanobody using a cathepsin B-susceptible valine-citrulline (VC) dipeptide, we significantly improved gene delivery efficiency both in vitro and in vivo. This enhancement can be attributed to the facilitated endosomal escape of rAAV2. Our method offers an exciting avenue for the rational modification of rAAV2 as a retargeting vehicle, providing a convenient platform for precisely engineering various rAAV2 vectors for both basic research and therapeutic applications. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: AAVs hold great promise in the treatment of genetic diseases, but their clinical use has been limited by off-target transduction and efficiency. Here, we report a strategy to construct NACs by conjugating a nanobody or scFv to an rAAV capsid site, specifically via biorthogonal click chemistry and a spy-spycatcher reaction. We explored the structure-effect and quantity-effect relationships of NACs and then optimized the transduction efficiency by introducing a valine-citrulline peptide linker. This approach provides a biocompatible method for rational modification of rAAV as a retargeting platform without structural disruption of the virus or alteration of the binding capacity of the nanobody, with potential utility across a broad spectrum of applications in targeted imaging and gene delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanjie Zhang
- Peking University-Yunnan Baiiyao International Medical Research Center, ChemicalBiology Center, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; Peking University Ningbo Institute of Marine Medicines, Ningbo, China.
| | - Zhiqian Chen
- Peking University-Yunnan Baiiyao International Medical Research Center, ChemicalBiology Center, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.
| | - Xiaoyang Wang
- Peking University-Yunnan Baiiyao International Medical Research Center, ChemicalBiology Center, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; Peking University Ningbo Institute of Marine Medicines, Ningbo, China.
| | - Rongding Yan
- Peking University-Yunnan Baiiyao International Medical Research Center, ChemicalBiology Center, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.
| | - Han Bao
- Peking University-Yunnan Baiiyao International Medical Research Center, ChemicalBiology Center, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.
| | - Xindang Chu
- Peking University-Yunnan Baiiyao International Medical Research Center, ChemicalBiology Center, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.
| | - Lingfeng Guo
- Peking University-Yunnan Baiiyao International Medical Research Center, ChemicalBiology Center, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.
| | - Xinchen Wang
- Peking University-Yunnan Baiiyao International Medical Research Center, ChemicalBiology Center, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.
| | - Yuanhao Li
- Peking University-Yunnan Baiiyao International Medical Research Center, ChemicalBiology Center, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; Peking University Ningbo Institute of Marine Medicines, Ningbo, China.
| | - Yu Mu
- Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Gaoke International Innovation Center, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Qiuchen He
- Peking University-Yunnan Baiiyao International Medical Research Center, ChemicalBiology Center, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; Peking University Ningbo Institute of Marine Medicines, Ningbo, China.
| | - Lihe Zhang
- Peking University-Yunnan Baiiyao International Medical Research Center, ChemicalBiology Center, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.
| | - Chuanling Zhang
- Peking University-Yunnan Baiiyao International Medical Research Center, ChemicalBiology Center, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.
| | - Demin Zhou
- Peking University-Yunnan Baiiyao International Medical Research Center, ChemicalBiology Center, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Gaoke International Innovation Center, Shenzhen, China; Peking University Ningbo Institute of Marine Medicines, Ningbo, China.
| | - Dezhong Ji
- Peking University-Yunnan Baiiyao International Medical Research Center, ChemicalBiology Center, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; Peking University Ningbo Institute of Marine Medicines, Ningbo, China.
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13
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Galvan S, Teixeira AP, Fussenegger M. Enhancing cell-based therapies with synthetic gene circuits responsive to molecular stimuli. Biotechnol Bioeng 2024; 121:2987-3000. [PMID: 38867466 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic biology aims to contribute to the development of next-generation patient-specific cell-based therapies for chronic diseases especially through the construction of sophisticated synthetic gene switches to enhance the safety and spatiotemporal controllability of engineered cells. Indeed, switches that sense and process specific cues, which may be either externally administered triggers or endogenous disease-associated molecules, have emerged as powerful tools for programming and fine-tuning therapeutic outputs. Living engineered cells, often referred to as designer cells, incorporating such switches are delivered to patients either as encapsulated cell implants or by infusion, as in the case of the clinically approved CAR-T cell therapies. Here, we review recent developments in synthetic gene switches responsive to molecular stimuli, spanning regulatory mechanisms acting at the transcriptional, translational, and posttranslational levels. We also discuss current challenges facing clinical translation of cell-based therapies employing these devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Galvan
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ana P Teixeira
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
- Faculty of Science, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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14
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Ebrahimi P, Davoudi E, Sadeghian R, Zadeh AZ, Razmi E, Heidari R, Morowvat MH, Sadeghian I. In vivo and ex vivo gene therapy for neurodegenerative diseases: a promise for disease modification. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:7501-7530. [PMID: 38775852 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03141-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs), including AD, PD, HD, and ALS, represent a growing public health concern linked to aging and lifestyle factors, characterized by progressive nervous system damage leading to motor and cognitive deficits. Current therapeutics offer only symptomatic management, highlighting the urgent need for disease-modifying treatments. Gene therapy has emerged as a promising approach, targeting the underlying pathology of diseases with diverse strategies including gene replacement, gene silencing, and gene editing. This innovative therapeutic approach involves introducing functional genetic material to combat disease mechanisms, potentially offering long-term efficacy and disease modification. With advancements in genomics, structural biology, and gene editing tools such as CRISPR/Cas9, gene therapy holds significant promise for addressing the root causes of NDDs. Significant progress in preclinical and clinical studies has demonstrated the potential of in vivo and ex vivo gene therapy to treat various NDDs, offering a versatile and precise approach in comparison to conventional treatments. The current review describes various gene therapy approaches employed in preclinical and clinical studies for the treatment of NDDs, including AD, PD, HD, and ALS, and addresses some of the key translational challenges in this therapeutic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pouya Ebrahimi
- Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Elham Davoudi
- Department of Biomedical and Nutritional Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA, USA
| | | | - Amin Zaki Zadeh
- Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Emran Razmi
- Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Reza Heidari
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Morowvat
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Issa Sadeghian
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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15
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Wang F, Huang Y, Li J, Zhou W, Wang W. Targeted gene delivery systems for T-cell engineering. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2024; 47:1537-1560. [PMID: 38753155 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-024-00954-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
T lymphocytes are indispensable for the host systems of defense against pathogens, tumors, and environmental threats. The therapeutic potential of harnessing the cytotoxic properties of T lymphocytes for antigen-specific cell elimination is both evident and efficacious. Genetically engineered T-cells, such as those employed in CAR-T and TCR-T cell therapies, have demonstrated significant clinical benefits in treating cancer and autoimmune disorders. However, the current landscape of T-cell genetic engineering is dominated by strategies that necessitate in vitro T-cell isolation and modification, which introduce complexity and prolong the development timeline of T-cell based immunotherapies. This review explores the complexities of gene delivery systems designed for T cells, covering both viral and nonviral vectors. Viral vectors are known for their high transduction efficiency, yet they face significant limitations, such as potential immunogenicity and the complexities involved in large-scale production. Nonviral vectors, conversely, offer a safer profile and the potential for scalable manufacturing, yet they often struggle with lower transduction efficiency. The pursuit of gene delivery systems that can achieve targeted gene transfer to T cell without the need for isolation represents a significant advancement in the field. This review assesses the design principles and current research progress of such systems, highlighting the potential for in vivo gene modification therapies that could revolutionize T-cell based treatments. By providing a comprehensive analysis of these systems, we aim to contribute valuable insights into the future development of T-cell immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengling Wang
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Huang
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - JiaQian Li
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Weilin Zhou
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People's Republic of China.
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16
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Brennan PG, Mota L, Aridi T, Patel N, Liang P, Ferran C. Advancements in Omics and Breakthrough Gene Therapies: A Glimpse into the Future of Peripheral Artery Disease. Ann Vasc Surg 2024; 107:229-246. [PMID: 38582204 DOI: 10.1016/j.avsg.2024.01.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Peripheral artery disease (PAD), a highly prevalent global disease, associates with significant morbidity and mortality in affected patients. Despite progress in endovascular and open revascularization techniques for advanced PAD, these interventions grapple with elevated rates of arterial restenosis and vein graft failure attributed to intimal hyperplasia (IH). Novel multiomics technologies, coupled with sophisticated analyses tools recently powered by advances in artificial intelligence, have enabled the study of atherosclerosis and IH with unprecedented single-cell and spatial precision. Numerous studies have pinpointed gene hubs regulating pivotal atherogenic and atheroprotective signaling pathways as potential therapeutic candidates. Leveraging advancements in viral and nonviral gene therapy (GT) platforms, gene editing technologies, and cutting-edge biomaterial reservoirs for delivery uniquely positions us to develop safe, efficient, and targeted GTs for PAD-related diseases. Gene therapies appear particularly fitting for ex vivo genetic engineering of IH-resistant vein grafts. This manuscript highlights currently available state-of-the-art multiomics approaches, explores promising GT-based candidates, and details GT delivery modalities employed by our laboratory and others to thwart mid-term vein graft failure caused by IH, as well as other PAD-related conditions. The potential clinical translation of these targeted GTs holds the promise to revolutionize PAD treatment, thereby enhancing patients' quality of life and life expectancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phillip G Brennan
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, and Center for Vascular Biology Research, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Lucas Mota
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, and Center for Vascular Biology Research, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Tarek Aridi
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, and Center for Vascular Biology Research, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Nyah Patel
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, and Center for Vascular Biology Research, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Patric Liang
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, and Center for Vascular Biology Research, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Christiane Ferran
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, and Center for Vascular Biology Research, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Division of Nephrology and the Transplant Institute, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA.
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17
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Lu YY, Li Y, Chen ZL, Xiong XH, Wang QY, Dong HL, Zhu C, Cui JZ, Hu A, Wang L, Song N, Liu G, Chen HP. Genetic switch selectively kills hepatocellular carcinoma cell based on microRNA and tissue-specific promoter. Mol Cell Probes 2024; 77:101981. [PMID: 39197503 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcp.2024.101981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2024] [Revised: 08/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024]
Abstract
The clinical treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is still a heavy burden worldwide. Intracellular microRNAs (miRNAs) commonly express abnormally in cancers, thus they are potential therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. miR-21 is upregulated in HCC whereas miR-122 is enriched in normal hepatocyte but downregulated in HCC. In our study, we first generated a reporter genetic switch compromising of miR-21 and miR-122 sponges as sensor, green fluorescent protein (GFP) as reporter gene and L7Ae:K-turn as regulatory element. The reporter expression was turned up in miR-21 enriched environment while turned down in miR-122 enriched environment, indicating that the reporter switch is able to respond distinctly to different miRNA environment. Furthermore, an AAT promoter, which is hepatocyte-specific, is applied to increase the specificity to hepatocyte. A killing switch with AAT promoter and an apoptosis-inducing element, Bax, in addition to miR-21 and miR-122 significantly inhibited cell viability in Huh-7 by 70 % and in HepG2 by 60 %. By contrast, cell viability was not affected in five non-HCC cells. Thus, we provide a novel feasible strategy to improve the safety of miRNA-based therapeutic agent to cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Yuan Lu
- Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei, 230000, China; Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Yi Li
- Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100850, China; Center for Disease Control and Prevention in Northern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army, Shenyang, 110031, China
| | - Zhi-Li Chen
- Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Xiang-Hua Xiong
- Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Qing-Yang Wang
- Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Hao-Long Dong
- Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Chen Zhu
- Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Jia-Zhen Cui
- Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Ao Hu
- Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei, 230000, China; Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Senior Department of Orthopedics, The Fourth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100048, China.
| | - Na Song
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, People's Hospital of Laoling, Laoling, 253600, China
| | - Gang Liu
- Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100850, China.
| | - Hui-Peng Chen
- Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100850, China
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18
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Meierrieks F, Weltken A, Pflanz K, Pickl A, Graf B, Wolff MW. A Novel and Simplified Anion Exchange Flow-Through Polishing Approach for the Separation of Full From Empty Adeno-Associated Virus Capsids. Biotechnol J 2024; 19:e202400430. [PMID: 39380499 DOI: 10.1002/biot.202400430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2024] [Revised: 09/09/2024] [Accepted: 09/11/2024] [Indexed: 10/10/2024]
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAV) are widely used viral vectors for in vivo gene therapy. The purification of AAV, particularly the separation of genome-containing from empty AAV capsids, is usually time-consuming and requires expensive equipment. In this study, we present a novel laboratory scale anion exchange flow-through polishing method designed to separate full and empty AAV. Once the appropriate conditions are defined, this method eliminates the need for a chromatography system. Determination of optimal polishing conditions using a chromatography system revealed that the divalent salt MgCl2 resulted in better separation of full and empty AAV than the monovalent salt NaCl. The efficacy of the method was demonstrated for three distinct AAV serotypes (AAV8, AAV5, and AAV2) on two different stationary phases: a membrane adsorber and a monolith, resulting in a 4- to 7.5-fold enrichment of full AAV particles. Moreover, the method was shown to preserve the AAV capsids' functional potency and structural integrity. Following the successful establishment of the flow-through polishing approach, it was adapted to a manual syringe-based system. Manual flow-through polishing using the monolith or membrane adsorber achieved 3.6- and 5.4-fold enrichment of full AAV, respectively. This study demonstrates the feasibility of separating full and empty AAV without complex linear or step gradient elution and the necessity of specialized equipment. Flow-through polishing provides a rapid and easy-to-perform platform for polishing multiple vector preparations, addressing a critical aspect in the research and development of novel gene therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederik Meierrieks
- Lab Essentials Applications Development, Sartorius Lab Instruments GmbH & Co. KG, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Alisa Weltken
- Lab Essentials Applications Development, Sartorius Lab Instruments GmbH & Co. KG, Göttingen, Germany
- University of Applied Sciences Aachen, Campus Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Karl Pflanz
- Lab Essentials Applications Development, Sartorius Stedim Biotech GmbH, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Andreas Pickl
- Lab Essentials Applications Development, Sartorius Lab Instruments GmbH & Co. KG, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Benjamin Graf
- Lab Essentials Applications Development, Sartorius Lab Instruments GmbH & Co. KG, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Michael W Wolff
- Institute of Bioprocess Engineering and Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Applied Sciences Mittelhessen (THM), Giessen, Germany
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19
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Zhang Y, Zhu Z, Li Z, Feng J, Long J, Deng Y, Ahmed W, Khan AA, Huang S, Fu Q, Chen L. Sbno1 mediates cell-cell communication between neural stem cells and microglia through small extracellular vesicles. Cell Biosci 2024; 14:125. [PMID: 39343943 PMCID: PMC11441009 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-024-01296-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neural stem cells (NSCs) play a crucial role in the progress of ischemic stroke. Research on zebrafish embryonic demonstrates an association between Strawberry Notch 1 (Sbno1) and central nervous system development. However, the regulation and underlying mechanism of Sbno1 in NSCs have not been studied yet. Here, we investigated the role and the mechanism of Sbno1 in NSCs development and the potential therapeutic value of Sbno1 in ischemic stroke. METHODS Adeno-associated virus (AAV) was used for overexpression or knockdown of Sbno1 in vitro or in vivo. A mouse model of MCAO was established to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of AAV-Sbno1, including balance beam test, rotarod test, and strength evaluation. H&E and immunofluorescence assessed neuronal impairment. Western blot and RT-qPCR were used to detect the expression of Sbno1 and its downstream target genes. RNA-seq and western blot were performed to explore further molecular mechanisms by which Sbno1 promoted endogenous repair of NSCs and macrophages M2 polarization. CCK8 was conducted to assess the effects of Sbno1 on NSCs proliferation. The impact of Sbno1 on NSCs apoptosis was evaluated by flow cytometry. NSCs derived from small extracellular vesicles (sEV) were obtained using ultracentrifugation and identified through nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) and western blot analysis. RESULTS Our results showed that Sbno1 is highly expressed in the central nervous system, which plays a crucial role in regulating the proliferation of NSCs through the PI3k-Akt-GSK3β-Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. In addition, with overexpression of Sbno1 in the hippocampus, post-stroke behavioral scores were superior to the wild-type mice, and immunofluorescence staining revealed an increased number of newly generated neurons. sEV released by NSCs overexpressing Sbno1 inhibited neuroinflammation, which mechanistically impaired the activation of the microglial NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways. CONCLUSIONS Our studies indicate that sbno1 promotes the proliferation of NSCs and enhances endogenous repairing through the PI3k-Akt-GSK3β-Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Additionally, NSCs overexpressing sbno1 improve ischemic stroke recovery and inhibit neuroinflammation after ischemia by sEV through the MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Southern Medical University Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhihan Zhu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Southern Medical University Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhinuo Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Southern Medical University Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jia Feng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Southern Medical University Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jun Long
- Department of Neurosurgery, Southern Medical University Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yushu Deng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Southern Medical University Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Waqas Ahmed
- Department of Neurology, Zhongda Hospital Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ahsan Ali Khan
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Shiying Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Southern Medical University Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qingling Fu
- Otorhinolaryngology Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lukui Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Southern Medical University Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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20
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Carneiro AD, Schaffer DV. Engineering novel adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) for improved delivery in the nervous system. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2024; 83:102532. [PMID: 39342684 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2024.102532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Revised: 08/27/2024] [Accepted: 09/03/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
Harnessing adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors for therapeutic gene delivery has emerged as a progressively promising strategy to treat disorders of both the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS), and there are many ongoing clinical trials. However, unique physiological and molecular characteristics of the CNS and PNS pose obstacles to efficient vector delivery, ranging from the blood-brain barrier to the diverse nature of nervous system disorders. Engineering novel AAV capsids may help overcome these ongoing challenges and maximize therapeutic transgene delivery. This article discusses strategies for innovative AAV capsid development, highlighting recent advances. Notably, advances in next generation sequencing and machine learning have sparked new approaches for capsid investigation and engineering. Furthermore, we outline future directions and additional challenges in AAV-mediated gene therapy in the CNS and PNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana D Carneiro
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - David V Schaffer
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA.
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21
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Daci R, Gray-Edwards H, Shazeeb MS, Vardar Z, Vachha B, Cataltepe OI, Flotte TR. Neuroimaging Applications for the Delivery and Monitoring of Gene Therapy for Central Nervous System Diseases. Hum Gene Ther 2024. [PMID: 39323316 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2024.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurological disease due to single gene defects represents a targetable entity for adeno-associated virus (AAV) mediated gene therapy. The delivery of AAV-mediated gene therapy to the brain is challenging, owing to the presence of the blood-brain barrier. Techniques in gene transfer, such as convection-enhanced intraparenchymal delivery and image-guided delivery to the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) spaces of the brain has led the field into highly accurate delivery techniques, which provide correction of genetic defects in specific brain regions or more broadly. These techniques commonly use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), and fluoroscopic guidance. Even more, the neuroimaging changes evaluated by MRI, MR spectroscopy (MRS), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and functional MRI (fMRI) can serve as important biomarkers of therapy effect and overall disease progression. Here, we discuss the role of neuroimaging in delivering AAV vectors and monitoring the effect of gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rrita Daci
- UMass Chan Medical School, Neurosurgery, 55 Lake Ave N, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States, 01655-0112;
| | - Heather Gray-Edwards
- University of Massachusetts Medical School , Department of Radiology, Horae Gene Therapy Center, Horae Gene Therapy Center, 368 Plantation Street, ASC6-2041, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States, 01605;
| | - Mohammed Salman Shazeeb
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Radiology, 55 Lake Ave North, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States, 01655;
| | - Zeynep Vardar
- UMass Chan Medical School, Radiology, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States;
| | - Behroze Vachha
- UMass Chan Medical School, Radiology, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States;
| | - Oguz I Cataltepe
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Department of Neurological Surgery, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States;
| | - Terence R Flotte
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Pediatrics, 55 Lake Avenue North, S1-340, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States, 01655;
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22
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Li YZ, Ji RR. Gene therapy for chronic pain management. Cell Rep Med 2024:101756. [PMID: 39366385 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2024.101756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 07/20/2024] [Accepted: 09/09/2024] [Indexed: 10/06/2024]
Abstract
Despite significant advances in identifying molecular targets for chronic pain over the past two decades, many remain difficult to target with traditional methods. Gene therapies such as antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), RNA interference (RNAi), CRISPR, and virus-based delivery systems have played crucial roles in discovering and validating new pain targets. While there has been a surge in gene therapy-based clinical trials, those focusing on pain as the primary outcome remain uncommon. This review examines various gene therapy strategies, including ASOs, small interfering RNA (siRNAs), optogenetics, chemogenetics, and CRISPR, and their delivery methods targeting primary sensory neurons and non-neuronal cells, including glia and chondrocytes. We also explore emerging gene therapy tools and highlight gene therapy's clinical potential in pain management, including trials targeting pain-related diseases. Advances in single-cell analysis of sensory neurons and non-neuronal cells, along with the development of new delivery tools, are poised to accelerate the application of gene therapy in pain medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ze Li
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Ru-Rong Ji
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Departments of Neurobiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Departments of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
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23
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Eisenhut P, Andorfer P, Haid A, Jokl B, Manhartsberger R, Fuchsberger F, Innthaler B, Lengler J, Kraus B, Pletzenauer R, Hernandez Bort JA, Unterthurner S. Orthogonal characterization of rAAV9 reveals unexpected transgene heterogeneity. J Biotechnol 2024; 393:128-139. [PMID: 39106910 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiotec.2024.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/09/2024]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) is the most widely used viral vector for in vivo human gene therapy. To ensure safety and efficacy of gene therapy products, a comprehensive analytical profile of the rAAVs is needed, which provides crucial information for therapeutic development and manufacturing. Besides information on rAAV quantities and possible contaminating DNA and protein species, assessing rAAV quality is of utmost importance. In vitro biopotency and methods to determine the full/empty ratio of rAAV capsids are commonly applied, but methods to assess the integrity of the viral genome are still rarely used. Here we describe an orthogonal approach to characterize rAAV quality. Two biologically different rAAV9s from different stages of the bioprocess, generated each with two different transfection reagents, were investigated. In vitro biopotency tests in all cases demonstrated that rAAV9s generated with transfection reagent FectoVIR® possessed a higher biological activity. Mass-based analytical methods, such as sedimentation velocity analytical ultracentrifugation (AUC) and mass photometry, showed a high share of full capsids (>80 %) at late process stages but did not detect any differences in the rAAV9s from the different transfection reagents. Multiplex dPCR and Nanopore long-read sequencing both demonstrated that, also in late-stage process samples, sample heterogeneity was relatively high with a rather small share of full-length transgenes of ∼10-40 %. Intriguingly, both methods detected a higher share of complete transgenes in rAAV9 generated with transfection reagent FectoVIR® instead of Polyethylenimine (PEI), and thereby explain the differences already observed in the biopotency assays. This study therefore emphasizes the necessity to utilize multiple, orthogonal methods to gain a better understanding of recombinantly manufactured AAVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Eisenhut
- Gene Therapy Process Development, Baxalta Innovations GmbH, part of Takeda companies, Orth an der Donau, Orth an der Donau 2304, Austria
| | - Peter Andorfer
- Gene Therapy Process Development, Baxalta Innovations GmbH, part of Takeda companies, Orth an der Donau, Orth an der Donau 2304, Austria
| | - Andrea Haid
- Gene Therapy Process Development, Baxalta Innovations GmbH, part of Takeda companies, Orth an der Donau, Orth an der Donau 2304, Austria
| | - Beatrice Jokl
- Gene Therapy Process Development, Baxalta Innovations GmbH, part of Takeda companies, Orth an der Donau, Orth an der Donau 2304, Austria
| | - Raffaela Manhartsberger
- Gene Therapy Process Development, Baxalta Innovations GmbH, part of Takeda companies, Orth an der Donau, Orth an der Donau 2304, Austria
| | - Felix Fuchsberger
- Gene Therapy Process Development, Baxalta Innovations GmbH, part of Takeda companies, Orth an der Donau, Orth an der Donau 2304, Austria
| | - Bernd Innthaler
- Gene Therapy Process Development, Baxalta Innovations GmbH, part of Takeda companies, Orth an der Donau, Orth an der Donau 2304, Austria
| | - Johannes Lengler
- Gene Therapy Process Development, Baxalta Innovations GmbH, part of Takeda companies, Orth an der Donau, Orth an der Donau 2304, Austria
| | - Barbara Kraus
- Gene Therapy Process Development, Baxalta Innovations GmbH, part of Takeda companies, Orth an der Donau, Orth an der Donau 2304, Austria
| | - Robert Pletzenauer
- Gene Therapy Process Development, Baxalta Innovations GmbH, part of Takeda companies, Orth an der Donau, Orth an der Donau 2304, Austria
| | - Juan A Hernandez Bort
- Gene Therapy Process Development, Baxalta Innovations GmbH, part of Takeda companies, Orth an der Donau, Orth an der Donau 2304, Austria; Department of Analytical Chemistry, University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria.
| | - Sabine Unterthurner
- Gene Therapy Process Development, Baxalta Innovations GmbH, part of Takeda companies, Orth an der Donau, Orth an der Donau 2304, Austria.
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24
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Brown DW, Wee P, Bhandari P, Bukhari A, Grin L, Vega H, Hejazi M, Sosnowski D, Ablack J, Clancy EK, Pink D, Kumar J, Solis Ares MP, Lamb S, Quevedo R, Rawal B, Elian F, Rana N, Morales L, Govindasamy N, Todd B, Delmage A, Gupta S, McMullen N, MacKenzie D, Beatty PH, Garcia H, Parmar M, Gyoba J, McAllister C, Scholz M, Duncan R, Raturi A, Lewis JD. Safe and effective in vivo delivery of DNA and RNA using proteolipid vehicles. Cell 2024; 187:5357-5375.e24. [PMID: 39260374 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
Genetic medicines show promise for treating various diseases, yet clinical success has been limited by tolerability, scalability, and immunogenicity issues of current delivery platforms. To overcome these, we developed a proteolipid vehicle (PLV) by combining features from viral and non-viral approaches. PLVs incorporate fusion-associated small transmembrane (FAST) proteins isolated from fusogenic orthoreoviruses into a well-tolerated lipid formulation, using scalable microfluidic mixing. Screening a FAST protein library, we identified a chimeric FAST protein with enhanced membrane fusion activity that improved gene expression from an optimized lipid formulation. Systemically administered FAST-PLVs showed broad biodistribution and effective mRNA and DNA delivery in mouse and non-human primate models. FAST-PLVs show low immunogenicity and maintain activity upon repeat dosing. Systemic administration of follistatin DNA gene therapy with FAST-PLVs raised circulating follistatin levels and significantly increased muscle mass and grip strength. These results demonstrate the promising potential of FAST-PLVs for redosable gene therapies and genetic medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas W Brown
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Ping Wee
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Prakash Bhandari
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Amirali Bukhari
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Liliya Grin
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Hector Vega
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Maryam Hejazi
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Deborah Sosnowski
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada
| | - Jailal Ablack
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada; OncoSenX, 701 Fifth Avenue, Suite 4200, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
| | - Eileen K Clancy
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Desmond Pink
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada
| | - Jitendra Kumar
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | | | - Suellen Lamb
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Rodrigo Quevedo
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Bijal Rawal
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Fahed Elian
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Natasha Rana
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Luis Morales
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Natasha Govindasamy
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Brendan Todd
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Angela Delmage
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Somnath Gupta
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Nichole McMullen
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Duncan MacKenzie
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Perrin H Beatty
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Henry Garcia
- Oisin Biotechnologies, 701 Fifth Avenue, Suite 4200, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
| | - Manoj Parmar
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Jennifer Gyoba
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Chandra McAllister
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Matthew Scholz
- Oisin Biotechnologies, 701 Fifth Avenue, Suite 4200, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
| | - Roy Duncan
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada; Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Arun Raturi
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada.
| | - John D Lewis
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada; OncoSenX, 701 Fifth Avenue, Suite 4200, Seattle, WA 98104, USA; Oisin Biotechnologies, 701 Fifth Avenue, Suite 4200, Seattle, WA 98104, USA.
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25
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Liu D, Li T, Liu L, Che X, Li X, Liu C, Wu G. Adeno-associated virus therapies: Pioneering solutions for human genetic diseases. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2024:S1359-6101(24)00078-9. [PMID: 39322487 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2024.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2024] [Revised: 09/13/2024] [Accepted: 09/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) has emerged as a fundamental component in the gene therapy landscape, widely acknowledged for its effectiveness in therapeutic gene delivery. The success of AAV-based therapies, such as Luxturna and Zolgensma, underscores their potential as a leading vector in gene therapy. This article provides an in-depth review of the development and mechanisms of AAV vector-based therapies, offering a comprehensive analysis of the latest clinical trial outcomes in central nervous system (CNS) diseases, ocular conditions, and hemophilia, where AAV therapies have shown promising results. Additionally, we discusse the selection of administration methods and serotypes tailored to specific diseases. Our objective is to showcase the innovative applications and future potential of AAV-based gene therapy, laying the groundwork for continued clinical advancements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dequan Liu
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Tian Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Lei Liu
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Xiangyu Che
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Xiaorui Li
- Department of oncology, Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology, Shenyang 110042, China.
| | - Chang Liu
- Department of thoracic surgery, Shenyang Tenth People's Hospital, Shenyang 110042, China.
| | - Guangzhen Wu
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China.
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26
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Jin Y, Du Q, Song M, Kang R, Zhou J, Zhang H, Ding Y. Amyloid-β-targeting immunotherapies for Alzheimer's disease. J Control Release 2024; 375:346-365. [PMID: 39271059 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 09/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024]
Abstract
Recent advances in clinical passive immunotherapy have provided compelling evidence that eliminating amyloid-β (Aβ) slows cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the modest benefits and side effects observed in clinical trials indicate that current immunotherapy therapy is not a panacea, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of AD mechanisms and the significance of early intervention through optimized immunotherapy or immunoprevention. This review focuses on the centrality of Aβ pathology in AD and summarizes recent clinical progress in passive and active immunotherapies targeting Aβ, discussing their lessons and failures to inform future anti-Aβ biotherapeutics design. Various delivery strategies to optimize Aβ-targeting immunotherapies are outlined, highlighting their benefits and drawbacks in overcoming challenges such as poor stability and limited tissue accessibility of anti-Aβ biotherapeutics. Additionally, the perspectives and challenges of immunotherapy and immunoprevention targeting Aβ are concluded in the end, aiming to guide the development of next-generation anti-Aβ immunotherapeutic agents towards improved efficacy and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Jin
- Department of Pharmaceutics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Qiaofei Du
- Department of Pharmaceutics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Mingjie Song
- Department of Pharmaceutics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ruixin Kang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jianping Zhou
- Department of Pharmaceutics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Huaqing Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Yang Ding
- Department of Pharmaceutics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
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Słyk Ż, Stachowiak N, Małecki M. Gene Therapy in the Light of Lifestyle Diseases: Budesonide, Acetaminophen and Simvastatin Modulates rAAV Transduction Efficiency. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:1213. [PMID: 39338375 PMCID: PMC11434873 DOI: 10.3390/ph17091213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2024] [Revised: 08/26/2024] [Accepted: 09/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Recombinant AAV (rAAV) vectors are increasingly favored for gene therapy due to their useful features of vectorology, such as transfection of dividing and nondividing cells, the presence of tissue-specific serotypes, and biosafety considerations. This study investigates the impact of commonly used therapeutic drugs-acetaminophen, budesonide, and simvastatin-on rAAV transduction efficiency in HEK-293 cells. Cells were transduced with an AAV mosaic vector under the control of a cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter encoding green fluorescent protein (GFP). Transduction efficiency was assessed by qPCR and fluorescent microscopy. Analysis of functional interactions between genes potentially involved in rAAV transduction in drug-exposed cells was also performed. This study showed a clear effect of drugs on rAAV transmission. Notably, acetaminophen enhanced transduction efficiency by 9-fold, while budesonide and simvastatin showed 2-fold and 3-fold increases, respectively. The gene analysis illustrates the possible involvement of genes related to cell membranes in the potentiation of rAAV transduction induced by the drugs under investigation. Attention should be paid to S100A8, which is a common drug-modified gene for drugs showing anti-inflammatory effects (budesonide and simvastatin), demonstrating an interaction with the gene encoding the receptor for AAV (HGFR). This study underscores the significance of assessing rAAV pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PKs/PDs) and drug-gene therapy interactions in optimizing gene therapy protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Żaneta Słyk
- Department of Applied Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
- Laboratory of Gene Therapy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Natalia Stachowiak
- Department of Applied Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Małecki
- Department of Applied Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
- Laboratory of Gene Therapy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
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28
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Basar E, Mead H, Shum B, Rauter I, Ay C, Skaletz-Rorowski A, Brockmeyer NH. Biological Barriers for Drug Delivery and Development of Innovative Therapeutic Approaches in HIV, Pancreatic Cancer, and Hemophilia A/B. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:1207. [PMID: 39339243 PMCID: PMC11435036 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16091207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2024] [Revised: 09/06/2024] [Accepted: 09/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Biological barriers remain a major obstacle for the development of innovative therapeutics. Depending on a disease's pathophysiology, the involved tissues, cell populations, and cellular components, drugs often have to overcome several biological barriers to reach their target cells and become effective in a specific cellular compartment. Human biological barriers are incredibly diverse and include multiple layers of protection and obstruction. Importantly, biological barriers are not only found at the organ/tissue level, but also include cellular structures such as the outer plasma membrane, the endolysosomal machinery, and the nuclear envelope. Nowadays, clinicians have access to a broad arsenal of therapeutics ranging from chemically synthesized small molecules, biologicals including recombinant proteins (such as monoclonal antibodies and hormones), nucleic-acid-based therapeutics, and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), to modern viral-vector-mediated gene therapy. In the past decade, the therapeutic landscape has been changing rapidly, giving rise to a multitude of innovative therapy approaches. In 2018, the FDA approval of patisiran paved the way for small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) to become a novel class of nucleic-acid-based therapeutics, which-upon effective drug delivery to their target cells-allow to elegantly regulate the post-transcriptional gene expression. The recent approvals of valoctocogene roxaparvovec and etranacogene dezaparvovec for the treatment of hemophilia A and B, respectively, mark the breakthrough of viral-vector-based gene therapy as a new tool to cure disease. A multitude of highly innovative medicines and drug delivery methods including mRNA-based cancer vaccines and exosome-targeted therapy is on the verge of entering the market and changing the treatment landscape for a broad range of conditions. In this review, we provide insights into three different disease entities, which are clinically, scientifically, and socioeconomically impactful and have given rise to many technological advancements: acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) as a predominant infectious disease, pancreatic carcinoma as one of the most lethal solid cancers, and hemophilia A/B as a hereditary genetic disorder. Our primary objective is to highlight the overarching principles of biological barriers that can be identified across different disease areas. Our second goal is to showcase which therapeutic approaches designed to cross disease-specific biological barriers have been promising in effectively treating disease. In this context, we will exemplify how the right selection of the drug category and delivery vehicle, mode of administration, and therapeutic target(s) can help overcome various biological barriers to prevent, treat, and cure disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emre Basar
- WIR—Walk In Ruhr, Center for Sexual Health & Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, Ruhr-University Bochum, 44787 Bochum, Germany;
| | | | - Bennett Shum
- GenePath LLC, Sydney, NSW 2067, Australia
- EMBL Australia Node in Single Molecule Science, School of Medical Sciences, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | | | - Cihan Ay
- Division of Haematology and Haemostaseology, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Adriane Skaletz-Rorowski
- WIR—Walk In Ruhr, Center for Sexual Health & Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, Ruhr-University Bochum, 44787 Bochum, Germany;
| | - Norbert H. Brockmeyer
- WIR—Walk In Ruhr, Center for Sexual Health & Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, Ruhr-University Bochum, 44787 Bochum, Germany;
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29
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Deng J, Li X, Yu H, Yang L, Wang Z, Yi W, Liu Y, Xiao W, Xiang H, Xie Z, Lv D, Ouyang H, Pang D, Yuan H. Accelerated discovery and miniaturization of novel single-stranded cytidine deaminases. Nucleic Acids Res 2024:gkae800. [PMID: 39271120 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 08/27/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Cytidine base editors (CBEs) hold significant potential in genetic disease treatment and in breeding superior traits into animals. However, their large protein sizes limit their delivery by adeno-associated virus (AAV), given its packing capacity of <4.7 kb. To overcome this, we employed a web-based fast generic discovery (WFG) strategy, identifying several small ssDNA deaminases (Sdds) and constructing multiple Sdd-CBE 1.0 versions. SflSdd-CBE 1.0 demonstrated high C-to-T editing efficiency, comparable to AncBE4max, while SviSdd-CBE 1.0 exhibited moderate C-to-T editing efficiency with a narrow editing window (C3 to C5). Utilizing AlphaFold2, we devised a one-step miniaturization strategy, reducing the size of Sdds while preserving their efficiency. Notably, we administered AAV8 expressing PCSK9 targeted sgRNA and SflSdd-CBEs (nSaCas9) 2.0 into mice, leading to gene-editing events (with editing efficiency up to 15%) and reduced serum cholesterol levels, underscoring the potential of Sdds in gene therapy. These findings offer new single-stranded editing tools for the treatment of rare genetic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiacheng Deng
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Xueyuan Li
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Hao Yu
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Lin Yang
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Ziru Wang
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Wenfeng Yi
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Ying Liu
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Wenyu Xiao
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Hongyong Xiang
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Zicong Xie
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Dongmei Lv
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Hongsheng Ouyang
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
- Chongqing Research Institute, Jilin University, Chongqing 401123, China
- Chongqing Jitang Biotechnology Research Institute, Chongqing 401123, China
| | - Daxin Pang
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
- Chongqing Research Institute, Jilin University, Chongqing 401123, China
- Chongqing Jitang Biotechnology Research Institute, Chongqing 401123, China
| | - Hongming Yuan
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
- Chongqing Research Institute, Jilin University, Chongqing 401123, China
- Chongqing Jitang Biotechnology Research Institute, Chongqing 401123, China
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30
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Yu L, Zhou Y, Shi XC, Wang GY, Fu ZH, Liang CG, Wang JZ. An amplification-free CRISPR-Cas12a assay for titer determination and composition analysis of the rAAV genome. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101304. [PMID: 39193315 PMCID: PMC11347852 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2024.101304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
The viral genome titer is a crucial indicator for the clinical dosing, manufacturing, and analytical testing of recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) gene therapy products. Although quantitative PCR and digital PCR are the common methods used for quantifying the rAAV genome titer, they are limited by inadequate accuracy and robustness. The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)-Cas12a biosensor is being increasingly used in virus detection; however, there is currently no report on its application in the titer determination of gene therapy products. In the present study, an amplification-free CRISPR-Cas12a assay was developed, optimized, and applied for rAAV genome titer determination. The assay demonstrated high precision and accuracy within the detection range of 4 × 109 and 1011 vg/mL. No significant difference was observed between the Cas12a and qPCR assay results (p < 0.05, t test). Moreover, Cas12a exhibited similar activity on both single-stranded and double-stranded DNA substrates. Based on this characteristic, the titers of positive-sense and negative-sense strands were determined separately, which revealed a significant difference between their titers for an in-house reference AAV5-IN. This study presents the inaugural report of a Cas12a assay developed for the titer determination and composition analysis of the rAAV genome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Yu
- School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, No. 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, P.R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Regulatory Science & NHC Key Laboratory of Research on Quality and Standardization of Biotech Products, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, No. 31 Huatuo St, Daxing District, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
| | - Yong Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Regulatory Science & NHC Key Laboratory of Research on Quality and Standardization of Biotech Products, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, No. 31 Huatuo St, Daxing District, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
| | - Xin-chang Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Regulatory Science & NHC Key Laboratory of Research on Quality and Standardization of Biotech Products, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, No. 31 Huatuo St, Daxing District, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
| | - Guang-yu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Regulatory Science & NHC Key Laboratory of Research on Quality and Standardization of Biotech Products, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, No. 31 Huatuo St, Daxing District, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
| | - Zhi-hao Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Regulatory Science & NHC Key Laboratory of Research on Quality and Standardization of Biotech Products, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, No. 31 Huatuo St, Daxing District, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
| | - Cheng-gang Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Regulatory Science & NHC Key Laboratory of Research on Quality and Standardization of Biotech Products, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, No. 31 Huatuo St, Daxing District, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
| | - Jun-zhi Wang
- School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, No. 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, P.R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Regulatory Science & NHC Key Laboratory of Research on Quality and Standardization of Biotech Products, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, No. 31 Huatuo St, Daxing District, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
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31
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Wang H, Li R, Sadekar S, Kamath AV, Shen BQ. A novel approach to quantitate biodistribution and transduction of adeno-associated virus gene therapy using radiolabeled AAV vectors in mice. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101326. [PMID: 39286334 PMCID: PMC11404148 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2024.101326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024]
Abstract
An understanding of recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV) biodistribution profiles is an important element of a preclinical development program. Here, we have developed a radiolabeling strategy utilizing the co-delivery of 125I (non-residualizing) and 111In (residualizing) radionuclide-conjugated AAVs to provide a detailed distribution quantification at tissue level delineating between the cellular internalized AAV (degraded, 111In-125I) and AAV remaining in the extracellular matrix (intact, 125I). This labeling method has been successfully applied to AAV9 and AAV-PHP.eB as tool molecules without altering the physical properties and biological activities of the AAVs. Upon labeling with either of the radioactive probes, these molecules were systemically injected into C57BL/6 mice. The biodistribution results indicate that AAVs, with a fast distribution profile, were mainly located in the extracellular matrix of highly perfused organs such as liver and spleen at early time points, leading to a difference between capsid quantification and vector genome quantification. The results suggest that the 125I-AAV/111In-AAV co-delivery approach offers a robust and efficient analytical strategy to investigate the detailed tissue distribution of AAV vectors, including both vector genome and protein capsids. This novel method has the potential to be applied to capsid optimization, selection, and lead candidate development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongzhi Wang
- Preclinical and Translational Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics, Genentech Inc, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Ran Li
- Preclinical and Translational Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics, Genentech Inc, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Shraddha Sadekar
- Preclinical and Translational Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics, Genentech Inc, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Amrita V Kamath
- Preclinical and Translational Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics, Genentech Inc, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Ben-Quan Shen
- Preclinical and Translational Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics, Genentech Inc, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
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32
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Ebberink EH, Ruisinger A, Nuebel M, Meyer-Berg H, Ferreira IR, Thomann M, Heck AJ. Probing recombinant AAV capsid integrity and genome release after thermal stress by mass photometry. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101293. [PMID: 39100914 PMCID: PMC11295964 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2024.101293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are gaining traction as delivery vehicles for gene therapy although the molecular understanding of AAV-transgene release is still limited. Typically, the process of viral uncoating is investigated (in vitro) through thermal stress, revealing capsid disintegration at elevated temperatures. To assess the (in)stability of different empty and filled AAV preparations, we used the light-scattering-based interferometric microscopy technique of mass photometry that, on a single-particle basis, determines the molecular weight of AAVs. By introducing a heat-stable DNA plasmid as an internal standard, we quantitatively probed the impact of heat on AAVs. Generally, empty AAVs exhibited greater heat resistance than genome-filled particles. Our data also indicate that upon DNA release, the capsids do not transform into empty AAVs, but seem to aggregate or disintegrate. Strikingly, some AAVs exhibited an intermediate state with disrupted capsids but preserved bound genome, a feature that experimentally only emerged following incubation with a nuclease. Our data demonstrate that the thermal uncoating process is highly AAV specific (i.e., can be influenced by serotype, genome, host system). We argue that nuclease treatment in combination with MP can be used as an additional analytical tool for assessing structural integrity of recombinant and/or clinical AAV vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduard H.T.M. Ebberink
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Utrecht, Padualaan 8, Utrecht 3584 CH, the Netherlands
- Netherlands Proteomics Center, Padualaan 8, Utrecht 3584 CH, the Netherlands
| | - Alisa Ruisinger
- Gene Therapy Technical Development Analytics, Roche Diagnostics GmbH, Nonnenwald 2, 82377 Penzberg, Germany
| | - Markus Nuebel
- Gene Therapy Technical Development Analytics, Roche Diagnostics GmbH, Nonnenwald 2, 82377 Penzberg, Germany
| | | | | | - Marco Thomann
- Gene Therapy Technical Development Analytics, Roche Diagnostics GmbH, Nonnenwald 2, 82377 Penzberg, Germany
| | - Albert J.R. Heck
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Utrecht, Padualaan 8, Utrecht 3584 CH, the Netherlands
- Netherlands Proteomics Center, Padualaan 8, Utrecht 3584 CH, the Netherlands
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33
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Ismail AM, Witt E, Bouwman T, Clark W, Yates B, Franco M, Fong S. The longitudinal kinetics of AAV5 vector integration profiles and evaluation of clonal expansion in mice. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101294. [PMID: 39104575 PMCID: PMC11298592 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2024.101294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based vectors are used clinically for gene transfer and persist as extrachromosomal episomes. A small fraction of vector genomes integrate into the host genome, but the theoretical risk of tumorigenesis depends on vector regulatory features. A mouse model was used to investigate integration profiles of an AAV serotype 5 (AAV5) vector produced using Sf and HEK293 cells that mimic key features of valoctocogene roxaparvovec (AAV5-hFVIII-SQ), a gene therapy for severe hemophilia A. The majority (95%) of vector genome reads were derived from episomes, and mean (± standard deviation) integration frequency was 2.70 ± 1.26 and 1.79 ± 0.86 integrations per 1,000 cells for Sf- and HEK293-produced vector. Longitudinal integration analysis suggested integrations occur primarily within 1 week, at low frequency, and their abundance was stable over time. Integration profiles were polyclonal and randomly distributed. No major differences in integration profiles were observed for either vector production platform, and no integrations were associated with clonal expansion. Integrations were enriched near transcription start sites of genes highly expressed in the liver (p = 1 × 10-4) and less enriched for genes of lower expression. We found no evidence of tumorigenesis or fibrosis caused by the vector integrations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Evan Witt
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., Novato, CA 94949, USA
| | | | - Wyatt Clark
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., Novato, CA 94949, USA
| | | | - Matteo Franco
- ProtaGene CGT GmbH, Heidelberg 69120, Germany
- ProtaGene Inc., Burlington, MA 01803, USA
| | - Sylvia Fong
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., Novato, CA 94949, USA
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Chhabra A, Bashirians G, Petropoulos CJ, Wrin T, Paliwal Y, Henstock PV, Somanathan S, da Fonseca Pereira C, Winburn I, Rasko JE. Global seroprevalence of neutralizing antibodies against adeno-associated virus serotypes used for human gene therapies. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101273. [PMID: 39022744 PMCID: PMC11253686 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2024.101273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors are promising gene therapy candidates, but pre-existing anti-AAV neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) pose a significant challenge to successful gene delivery. Knowledge of NAb seroprevalence remains limited and inconsistent. We measured activity of NAbs against six clinically relevant AAV serotypes across 10 countries in adults (n = 502) and children (n = 50) using a highly sensitive transduction inhibition assay. NAb prevalence was generally highest for AAV1 and lowest for AAV5. There was considerable variability across countries and geographical regions. NAb prevalence increased with age and was higher in females, participants of Asian ethnicity, and participants in cancer trials. Co-prevalence was most frequently observed between AAV1 and AAV6 and less frequently between AAV5 and other AAVs. Machine learning analyses revealed a unique clustering of AAVs that differed from previous phylogenetic classifications. These results offer insights into the biological relationships between the immunogenicity of AAVs in humans beyond that observed previously using standard clades, which are based on linear capsid sequences. Our findings may inform improved vector design and facilitate the development of AAV vector-mediated clinical gene therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Terri Wrin
- Labcorp-Monogram Biosciences, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - John E.J. Rasko
- University of Sydney, Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine & Health, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Department of Cell and Molecular Therapies, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Gene and Stem Cell Therapy Program, Centenary Institute University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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35
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Liu X, Jean-Gilles R, Baginski J, Cai C, Yan R, Zhang L, Lance K, van der Loo JC, Davidson BL. Evaluation of a rapid multi-attribute combinatorial high-throughput UV-Vis/DLS/SLS analytical platform for rAAV quantification and characterization. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101298. [PMID: 39170800 PMCID: PMC11338085 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2024.101298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV)-based gene therapies are expanding in their application. Despite progress in manufacturing, current analytical methods for product quantification and characterization remain largely unchanged. Although critical for product and process development, in-process testing, and batch release, current analytical methods are labor-intensive, costly, and hampered by extended turnaround times and low throughput. The field requires more efficient, cost-effective analytical techniques capable of handling large sample quantities to accelerate product and process development. Here, we evaluated Stunner from Unchained Labs for quantifying and characterizing rAAVs and compared it with established analytical methods. Stunner is a combinatorial analytic technology platform that interpolates ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) absorption with static and dynamic light scattering (SLS/DLS) analysis to determine capsid and genomic titer, empty and full capsid ratio, and assess vector size and polydispersity. The platform offers empirical measurements with minimal sample requirements. Upon testing hundreds of rAAV vectors, comprising various serotypes and transgenes, the data show a strong correlation with established analytical methods and exhibit high reproducibility and repeatability. Some analyses can be applied to in-process samples from different purification stages and processes, fulfilling the demand for rapid, high-throughput analysis during development. In sum, the pipeline presented streamlines small- and large-batch analytics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueyuan Liu
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | | | - Julia Baginski
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Christina Cai
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Ruilan Yan
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Lili Zhang
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | | | - Johannes C.M. van der Loo
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Beverly L. Davidson
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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36
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Sarmah D, Husson SM. A Novel Method for Separating Full and Empty Adeno-Associated Viral Capsids Using Ultrafiltration. MEMBRANES 2024; 14:194. [PMID: 39330535 PMCID: PMC11434191 DOI: 10.3390/membranes14090194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2024] [Revised: 08/30/2024] [Accepted: 09/10/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024]
Abstract
Adeno-associated viral vectors (AAVs) are the predominant viral vectors used for gene therapy applications. A significant challenge in obtaining effective doses is removing non-therapeutic empty viral capsids lacking DNA cargo. Current methods for separating full (gene-containing) and empty capsids are challenging to scale, produce low product yields, are slow, and are difficult to operationalize for continuous biomanufacturing. This communication demonstrates the feasibility of separating full and empty capsids by ultrafiltration. Separation performance was quantified by measuring the sieving coefficients for full and empty capsids using ELISA, qPCR, and an infectivity assay based on the live cell imaging of green fluorescent protein expression. We demonstrated that polycarbonate track-etched membranes with a pore size of 30 nm selectively permeated empty capsids to full capsids, with a high recovery yield (89%) for full capsids. The average sieving coefficients of full and empty capsids obtained through ELISA/qPCR were calculated as 0.25 and 0.49, indicating that empty capsids were about twice as permeable as full capsids. Establishing ultrafiltration as a viable unit operation for separating full and empty AAV capsids has implications for developing the scale-free continuous purification of AAVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepraj Sarmah
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Clemson University, 127 Earle Hall, Clemson, SC 29634, USA
| | - Scott M Husson
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Clemson University, 127 Earle Hall, Clemson, SC 29634, USA
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37
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La Bella T, Bertin B, Mihaljevic A, Nozi J, Vidal P, Imbeaud S, Nault JC, Zucman-Rossi J, Ronzitti G. Predictive power of deleterious single amino acid changes to infer on AAV2 and AAV2-13 capsids fitness. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101327. [PMID: 39286333 PMCID: PMC11403266 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2024.101327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) is the most widely used vector for in vivo gene transfer. A major limitation of capsid engineering is the incomplete understanding of the consequences of multiple amino acid variations on AAV capsid stability resulting in high frequency of non-viable capsids. In this context, the study of natural AAV variants can provide valuable insights into capsid regions that exhibit greater tolerance to mutations. Here, the characterization of AAV2 variants and the analysis of two public capsid libraries highlighted common features associated with deleterious mutations, suggesting that the impact of mutations on capsid viability is strictly dependent on their 3D location within the capsid structure. We developed a novel prediction method to infer the fitness of AAV2 variants containing multiple amino acid variations with 98% sensitivity, 98% accuracy, and 95% specificity. This novel approach might streamline the development of AAV vector libraries enriched in viable capsids, thus accelerating the identification of therapeutic candidates among engineered capsids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana La Bella
- Genethon, 91000 Evry, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, University Evry, Inserm, Genethon, Integrare Research Unit UMR_S951, 91000 Evry, France
| | - Bérangère Bertin
- Genethon, 91000 Evry, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, University Evry, Inserm, Genethon, Integrare Research Unit UMR_S951, 91000 Evry, France
| | - Ante Mihaljevic
- Genethon, 91000 Evry, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, University Evry, Inserm, Genethon, Integrare Research Unit UMR_S951, 91000 Evry, France
| | - Justine Nozi
- Genethon, 91000 Evry, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, University Evry, Inserm, Genethon, Integrare Research Unit UMR_S951, 91000 Evry, France
| | - Patrice Vidal
- Genethon, 91000 Evry, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, University Evry, Inserm, Genethon, Integrare Research Unit UMR_S951, 91000 Evry, France
| | - Sandrine Imbeaud
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris, INSERM, 75000 Paris, France
| | - Jean-Charles Nault
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris, INSERM, 75000 Paris, France
- Avicenne Hospital, Paris-Seine-Saint-Denis University Hospital, APHP, 93000 Bobigny, France
| | - Jessica Zucman-Rossi
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris, INSERM, 75000 Paris, France
- Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, AP-HP, 75000 Paris, France
| | - Giuseppe Ronzitti
- Genethon, 91000 Evry, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, University Evry, Inserm, Genethon, Integrare Research Unit UMR_S951, 91000 Evry, France
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38
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Leibiger TM, Remmler LA, Green EA, Lee KH. Biolayer interferometry for adeno-associated virus capsid titer measurement and applications to upstream and downstream process development. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101306. [PMID: 39220638 PMCID: PMC11365433 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2024.101306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Faster and more accurate analytical methods are needed to support the advancement of recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) production systems. Recently, biolayer interferometry (BLI) has been developed for high-throughput AAV capsid titer measurement by functionalizing the AAVX ligand onto biosensor probes (AAVX-BLI). In this work, an AAVX-BLI method was evaluated using Octet AAVX biosensors across four rAAV serotypes (rAAV2, -5, -8, and -9) and applied in an upstream and downstream processing context. AAVX-BLI measured the capsid titer across a wide concentration range (1 × 1010-1 × 1012 capsids/mL) for different rAAV serotypes and sample backgrounds with reduced measurement variance and error compared to an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. Biosensors were regenerated for repeated use, with lysate samples showing reduced regeneration capacity compared to purified and supernatant samples. The AAVX-BLI method was applied in a transfection optimization study where direct capsid titer measurement of culture supernatants generated a representative response surface for the total vector genome (VG) titer. For rAAV purification, AAVX-BLI was used to measure dynamic binding capacity with POROS CaptureSelect AAVX affinity chromatography, showing resin breakthrough dependence on the operating flow rate. Measurement accuracy, serotype and sample background flexibility, and high sample throughput make AAVX-BLI an attractive alternative to other capsid titer measurement techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas M. Leibiger
- University of Delaware, Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Newark, DE, USA
| | - Luke A. Remmler
- University of Delaware, Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Newark, DE, USA
| | - Erica A. Green
- University of Delaware, Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Newark, DE, USA
| | - Kelvin H. Lee
- University of Delaware, Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Newark, DE, USA
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39
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Acevedo J, Bi Y, Gee J, Khatwani SL. Assessment of adeno-associated virus purity by capillary electrophoresis-based western. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101321. [PMID: 39282080 PMCID: PMC11396060 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2024.101321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/18/2024]
Abstract
A rigorous analytical assessment of recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV)-based drug products is critical for their successful development as clinical candidates. It is especially important to ascertain high purity while simultaneously ensuring low levels of impurities in the final drug product. One approach to evaluate the purity of rAAV drug products is to determine the relative stoichiometry of the three viral proteins (VPs) that comprise an rAAV capsid, and the levels of impurities in the final drug product. Here we present two capillary electrophoresis-western (CE-western) assays for quantifying (1) the relative stoichiometry of VP using the anti-AAV B1 antibody, and (2) residual levels of a baculovirus protein impurity, GP64, using the anti-GP64 antibody. In each assay, various purified samples from diverse AAV serotypes were analyzed to determine their VP ratio or GP64 levels. The ratio of VP3/VP1 in rAAV samples was correlated with biological activity, and the clearance of GP64 from the manufacturing process was demonstrated. The results obtained from both assays were further supported by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analyses. Overall, we report that CE-western is a high-throughput platform that utilizes low sample volumes for a rapid, sensitive, and robust assessment of the identity, composition, and purity of rAAV drug products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julyana Acevedo
- Analytical Development, Sangamo Therapeutics, 501 Canal Blvd, Richmond, CA 94804, USA
| | - Yiling Bi
- Analytical Development, Sangamo Therapeutics, 501 Canal Blvd, Richmond, CA 94804, USA
| | - Jessica Gee
- Analytical Development, Sangamo Therapeutics, 501 Canal Blvd, Richmond, CA 94804, USA
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40
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Vu Hong A, Suel L, Petat E, Dubois A, Le Brun PR, Guerchet N, Veron P, Poupiot J, Richard I. An engineered AAV targeting integrin alpha V beta 6 presents improved myotropism across species. Nat Commun 2024; 15:7965. [PMID: 39261465 PMCID: PMC11390886 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-52002-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Current adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene therapy using nature-derived AAVs is limited by non-optimal tissue targeting. In the treatment of muscular diseases (MD), high doses are often required but can lead to severe adverse effects. Here, we rationally design an AAV capsid that specifically targets skeletal muscle to lower treatment doses. We computationally integrate binding motifs of human integrin alphaV beta6, a skeletal muscle receptor, into a liver-detargeting capsid. Designed AAVs show higher productivity and superior muscle transduction compared to their parent. One variant, LICA1, demonstrates comparable muscle transduction to other myotropic AAVs with reduced liver targeting. LICA1's myotropic properties are observed across species, including non-human primate. Consequently, LICA1, but not AAV9, effectively delivers therapeutic transgenes and improved muscle functionality in two mouse MD models (male mice) at a low dose (5E12 vg/kg). These results underline the potential of our design method for AAV engineering and LICA1 variant for MD gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ai Vu Hong
- Genethon, 1 bis rue de l'internationale, Evry, France.
- INTEGRARE research unit UMR_S951 (INSERM, Université Paris-Saclay, Univ Evry), Evry, France.
| | - Laurence Suel
- Genethon, 1 bis rue de l'internationale, Evry, France
- INTEGRARE research unit UMR_S951 (INSERM, Université Paris-Saclay, Univ Evry), Evry, France
| | - Eva Petat
- Genethon, 1 bis rue de l'internationale, Evry, France
- INTEGRARE research unit UMR_S951 (INSERM, Université Paris-Saclay, Univ Evry), Evry, France
| | - Auriane Dubois
- Genethon, 1 bis rue de l'internationale, Evry, France
- INTEGRARE research unit UMR_S951 (INSERM, Université Paris-Saclay, Univ Evry), Evry, France
| | - Pierre-Romain Le Brun
- Genethon, 1 bis rue de l'internationale, Evry, France
- INTEGRARE research unit UMR_S951 (INSERM, Université Paris-Saclay, Univ Evry), Evry, France
| | - Nicolas Guerchet
- Genethon, 1 bis rue de l'internationale, Evry, France
- INTEGRARE research unit UMR_S951 (INSERM, Université Paris-Saclay, Univ Evry), Evry, France
| | - Philippe Veron
- Genethon, 1 bis rue de l'internationale, Evry, France
- INTEGRARE research unit UMR_S951 (INSERM, Université Paris-Saclay, Univ Evry), Evry, France
| | - Jérôme Poupiot
- Genethon, 1 bis rue de l'internationale, Evry, France
- INTEGRARE research unit UMR_S951 (INSERM, Université Paris-Saclay, Univ Evry), Evry, France
| | - Isabelle Richard
- Genethon, 1 bis rue de l'internationale, Evry, France.
- INTEGRARE research unit UMR_S951 (INSERM, Université Paris-Saclay, Univ Evry), Evry, France.
- Atamyo Therapeutics, 1 bis rue de l'internationale, Evry, France.
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41
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Mo W, Donahue JK. Gene therapy for atrial fibrillation. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2024; 196:84-93. [PMID: 39270930 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2024.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 08/19/2024] [Accepted: 09/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia in adults. Current limitations of pharmacological and ablative therapies motivate the development of novel therapies as next generation treatments for AF. The arrhythmia mechanisms creating and sustaining AF are key elements in the development of this novel treatment. Gene therapy provides a useful platform that allows us to regulate the mechanisms of interest using a suitable transgene(s), vector, and delivery method. Effective gene therapy strategies in the literature have targeted maladaptive electrical or structural remodeling that increase vulnerability to AF. In this review, we will summarize key elements of gene therapy for AF, including molecular targets, gene transfer vectors, atrial gene delivery and preclinical efficacy and toxicity testing. Recent advances and challenges in the field will be also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weilan Mo
- From the Division of Cardiology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States of America
| | - J Kevin Donahue
- From the Division of Cardiology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States of America.
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42
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Eftekhari Z, Zohrabi H, Oghalaie A, Ebrahimi T, Shariati FS, Behdani M, Kazemi-Lomedasht F. Advancements and challenges in mRNA and ribonucleoprotein-based therapies: From delivery systems to clinical applications. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102313. [PMID: 39281702 PMCID: PMC11402252 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/18/2024]
Abstract
The use of mRNA and ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) as therapeutic agents is a promising strategy for treating diseases such as cancer and infectious diseases. This review provides recent advancements and challenges in mRNA- and RNP-based therapies, focusing on delivery systems such as lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), which ensure efficient delivery to target cells. Strategies such as microfluidic devices are employed to prepare LNPs loaded with mRNA and RNPs, demonstrating effective genome editing and protein expression in vitro and in vivo. These applications extend to cancer treatment and infectious disease management, with promising results in genome editing for cancer therapy using LNPs encapsulating Cas9 mRNA and single-guide RNA. In addition, tissue-specific targeting strategies offer potential for improved therapeutic outcomes and reduced off-target effects. Despite progress, challenges such as optimizing delivery efficiency and targeting remain. Future research should enhance delivery efficiency, explore tissue-specific targeting, investigate combination therapies, and advance clinical translation. In conclusion, mRNA- and RNP-based therapies offer a promising avenue for treating various diseases and have the potential to revolutionize medicine, providing new hope for patients worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohre Eftekhari
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Laboratory, Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran 1316943551, Iran
| | - Horieh Zohrabi
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Laboratory, Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran 1316943551, Iran
| | - Akbar Oghalaie
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Laboratory, Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran 1316943551, Iran
| | - Tahereh Ebrahimi
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, New Technologies Research Group, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran 1316943551, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sadat Shariati
- Department of Influenza and other Respiratory Viruses, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran 1316943551, Iran
| | - Mahdi Behdani
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Laboratory, Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran 1316943551, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Kazemi-Lomedasht
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Laboratory, Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran 1316943551, Iran
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43
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Wang T, Yu T, Liu Q, Sung TC, Higuchi A. Lipid nanoparticle technology-mediated therapeutic gene manipulation in the eyes. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102236. [PMID: 39005878 PMCID: PMC11245926 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Millions of people worldwide have hereditary genetic disorders, trauma, infectious diseases, or cancer of the eyes, and many of these eye diseases lead to irreversible blindness, which is a major public health burden. The eye is a relatively small and immune-privileged organ. The use of nucleic acid-based drugs to manipulate malfunctioning genes that target the root of ocular diseases is regarded as a therapeutic approach with great promise. However, there are still some challenges for utilizing nucleic acid therapeutics in vivo because of certain unfavorable characteristics, such as instability, biological carrier-dependent cellular uptake, short pharmacokinetic profiles in vivo (RNA), and on-target and off-target side effects (DNA). The development of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) as gene vehicles is revolutionary progress that has contributed the clinical application of nucleic acid therapeutics. LNPs have the capability to entrap and transport various genetic materials such as small interfering RNA, mRNA, DNA, and gene editing complexes. This opens up avenues for addressing ocular diseases through the suppression of pathogenic genes, the expression of therapeutic proteins, or the correction of genetic defects. Here, we delve into the cutting-edge LNP technology for ocular gene therapy, encompassing formulation designs, preclinical development, and clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, No. 270, Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Tao Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, No. 270, Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Qian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, No. 270, Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Tzu-Cheng Sung
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, No. 270, Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Akon Higuchi
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, No. 270, Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, National Central University, No. 300, Jhongda RD, Jhongli, Taoyuan 32001, Taiwan
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44
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Tang Q, Tomás RMF, Gibson MI. Covalent recruitment of polymers and nanoparticles onto glycan-engineered cells enhances gene delivery during short exposure. Chem Sci 2024:d4sc03666b. [PMID: 39263661 PMCID: PMC11382546 DOI: 10.1039/d4sc03666b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 09/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Non-viral gene delivery with cationic polymers/nanoparticles relies on iterative optimization of the carrier to achieve delivery. Here we demonstrate, instead, that precision engineering of cell surfaces to covalently capture a polyplex accelerates gene delivery within just 10 min of exposure. Azides were installed into cell-surface sialic acids, which enabled the rapid and selective recruitment of cyclooctyne-functional polyplexes, leading to increased delivery of fluorescent cargo, and also increased plasmid expression and siRNA knockdown. Covalent delivery enhancement was also shown for a polymer-coated nanoparticle delivery system. This validates using cellular metabolic engineering (or other synthetic biology) tools to overcome payload delivery challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiao Tang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick Gibbet Hill Road Coventry CV4 7AL UK
- Department of Chemistry, University of Manchester Oxford Road Manchester M13 9PL UK
- Cryologyx Ltd 71-75 Shelton Street London WC2H 9JQ UK
| | - Ruben M F Tomás
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick Gibbet Hill Road Coventry CV4 7AL UK
- Cryologyx Ltd 71-75 Shelton Street London WC2H 9JQ UK
| | - Matthew I Gibson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick Gibbet Hill Road Coventry CV4 7AL UK
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick Gibbet Hill Road Coventry CV4 7AL UK
- Department of Chemistry, University of Manchester Oxford Road Manchester M13 9PL UK
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology 131 Princess Street Manchester M1 7DN UK
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45
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Dong H, Qin B, Zhang H, Lei L, Wu S. Current Treatment Methods for Charcot-Marie-Tooth Diseases. Biomolecules 2024; 14:1138. [PMID: 39334903 PMCID: PMC11430469 DOI: 10.3390/biom14091138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2024] [Revised: 08/21/2024] [Accepted: 08/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease, the most common inherited neuromuscular disorder, exhibits a wide phenotypic range, genetic heterogeneity, and a variable disease course. The diverse molecular genetic mechanisms of CMT were discovered over the past three decades with the development of molecular biology and gene sequencing technologies. These methods have brought new options for CMT reclassification and led to an exciting era of treatment target discovery for this incurable disease. Currently, there are no approved disease management methods that can fully cure patients with CMT, and rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery are the only available treatments to ameliorate symptoms. Considerable research attention has been given to disease-modifying therapies, including gene silencing, gene addition, and gene editing, but most treatments that reach clinical trials are drug treatments, while currently, only gene therapies for CMT2S have reached the clinical trial stage. In this review, we highlight the pathogenic mechanisms and therapeutic investigations of different subtypes of CMT, and promising therapeutic approaches are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongxian Dong
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (H.D.); (B.Q.); (H.Z.)
| | - Boquan Qin
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (H.D.); (B.Q.); (H.Z.)
| | - Hui Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (H.D.); (B.Q.); (H.Z.)
| | - Lei Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Shizhou Wu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (H.D.); (B.Q.); (H.Z.)
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46
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Xie M, Wang L, Deng Y, Ma K, Yin H, Zhang X, Xiang X, Tang J. Sustained and Efficient Delivery of Antivascular Endothelial Growth Factor by the Adeno-associated Virus for the Treatment of Corneal Neovascularization: An Outlook for Its Clinical Translation. J Ophthalmol 2024; 2024:5487973. [PMID: 39286553 PMCID: PMC11405113 DOI: 10.1155/2024/5487973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/17/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Corneal diseases represent 5.1% of all eye defects and are the fourth leading cause of blindness globally. Corneal neovascularization can arise from all conditions of chronic irritation or hypoxia, which disrupts the immune-privileged state of the healthy cornea, increases the risk of rejection after keratoplasty, and leads to opacity. In the past decades, significant progress has been made for neovascular diseases of the retina and choroid, with plenty of drugs getting commercialized. In addition, to overcome the barriers of the short duration and inadequate penetration of conventional formulations of antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), multiple novel drug delivery systems, including adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated transfer have gone through the full process of bench-to-bedside translation. Like retina neovascular diseases, corneal neovascularization also suffers from chronicity and a high risk of recurrence, necessitating sustained and efficient delivery across the epithelial barrier to reach deep layers of the corneal stroma. Among the explored methods, adeno-associated virus-mediated delivery of anti-VEGF to treat corneal neovascularization is the most extensively researched and most promising strategy for clinical translation although currently although, it remains predominantly at the preclinical stage. This review comprehensively examines the necessity, benefits, and risks of applying AAV vectors for anti-VEGF drug delivery in corneal vascularization, including its current progress and challenges in clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengzhen Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology West China Hospital Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology Beijing Tongren Eye Center Beijing Tongren Hospital Capital Medical University Beijing Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Beijing, China
| | - Lixiang Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology West China Hospital Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yingping Deng
- Department of Ophthalmology West China Hospital Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Ke Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology West China Hospital Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Hongbo Yin
- Department of Ophthalmology West China Hospital Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xiaolan Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology West China Hospital Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xingye Xiang
- School of Life Science and Engineering Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30302, USA
| | - Jing Tang
- Department of Ophthalmology West China Hospital Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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47
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Baxter MF, Borchert GA. Gene Therapy for Achromatopsia. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:9739. [PMID: 39273686 PMCID: PMC11396370 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25179739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2024] [Revised: 08/23/2024] [Accepted: 09/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Achromatopsia is the most common cone dysfunction syndrome, affecting 1 in 30,000 people. It is an autosomal recessive disorder with a heterogeneous genetic background with variants reported in CNGA3, CNGB3, GNAT2, PDE6C, PDE6H, and ATF6. Up to 90% of achromatopsia patients harbour mutations in CNGA3 or CNB3, which encode for the alpha and beta subunits of the cone cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) channel in cone-specific phototransduction. The condition presents at birth or early infancy with poor visual acuity, nystagmus, photophobia, and colour vision loss in all axes. Multimodal retinal imaging has provided insightful information to characterise achromatopsia patients based on their genotype. There is no FDA-approved treatment for achromatopsia; however, studies have reported several preclinical gene therapies with anatomical and functional improvements reported in vivo. There are currently five gene therapy clinical trials registered for human patients at the phase I/II stage and for CNGA3 or CNGB3 causing achromatopsia. This review aims to discuss the genetics of achromatopsia, genotypic and phenotypic correlations in multimodal retinal imaging, and the developments and challenges in gene therapy clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan F Baxter
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Gold Coast 4215, Australia
| | - Grace A Borchert
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Gold Coast 4215, Australia
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
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48
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Shen S, Wang P, Wu P, Huang P, Chi T, Xu W, Xi Y. CasRx-based Wnt activation promotes alveolar regeneration while ameliorating pulmonary fibrosis in a mouse model of lung injury. Mol Ther 2024:S1525-0016(24)00593-8. [PMID: 39245939 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Wnt/β-catenin signaling is an attractive target for regenerative medicine. A powerful driver of stem cell activity and hence tissue regeneration, Wnt signaling can promote fibroblast proliferation and activation, leading to fibrosis, while prolonged Wnt signaling is potentially carcinogenic. Thus, to harness its therapeutic potential, the activation of Wnt signaling must be transient, reversible, and tissue specific. In the lung, Wnt signaling is essential for alveolar stem cell activity and alveolar regeneration, which is impaired in lung fibrosis. Activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in lung epithelium may have anti-fibrotic effects. Here, we used intratracheal adeno-associated virus 6 injection to selectively deliver CasRx into the lung epithelium, where it reversibly activates Wnt signaling by simultaneously degrading mRNAs encoding Axin1 and Axin2, negative regulators of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Interestingly, CasRx-mediated Wnt activation specifically in lung epithelium not only promotes alveolar type II cell proliferation and alveolar regeneration but also inhibits lung fibrosis resulted from bleomycin-induced injury, relevant in both preventive and therapeutic settings. Our study offers an attractive strategy for treating pulmonary fibrosis, with general implications for regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengxi Shen
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China; State Key Laboratory of Advanced Medical Materials and Devices, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Ping Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China; State Key Laboratory of Advanced Medical Materials and Devices, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Pei Wu
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China; State Key Laboratory of Advanced Medical Materials and Devices, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Pengyu Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Medical Materials and Devices, Engineering Research Center of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine Technology and Device (Ministry of Education), Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300192, China
| | - Tian Chi
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China; Department of Immunobiology, Yale University Medical School, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Wenqing Xu
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Ying Xi
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China; State Key Laboratory of Advanced Medical Materials and Devices, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.
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49
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Furlanis E, Dai M, Garcia BL, Vergara J, Pereira A, Pelkey K, Tran T, Gorissen BL, Vlachos A, Hairston A, Huang S, Dwivedi D, Du S, Wills S, McMahon J, Lee AT, Chang EF, Razzaq T, Qazi A, Vargish G, Yuan X, Caccavano A, Hunt S, Chittajallu R, McLean N, Hewit L, Paranzino E, Rice H, Cummins AC, Plotnikova A, Mohanty A, Tangen AC, Shin JH, Azadi R, Eldridge MA, Alvarez VA, Averbeck BB, Alyahyay M, Vallejo TR, Soheib M, Vattino LG, MacGregor CP, Banks E, Olah VJ, Naskar S, Hill S, Liebergall S, Badiani R, Hyde L, Xu Q, Allaway KC, Goldberg EM, Nowakowski TJ, Lee S, Takesian AE, Ibrahim LA, Iqbal A, McBain CJ, Dimidschstein J, Fishell G, Wang Y. An enhancer-AAV toolbox to target and manipulate distinct interneuron subtypes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.07.17.603924. [PMID: 39091835 PMCID: PMC11291062 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.17.603924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, we and others have identified a number of enhancers that, when incorporated into rAAV vectors, can restrict the transgene expression to particular neuronal populations. Yet, viral tools to access and manipulate fine neuronal subtypes are still limited. Here, we performed systematic analysis of single cell genomic data to identify enhancer candidates for each of the cortical interneuron subtypes. We established a set of enhancer-AAV tools that are highly specific for distinct cortical interneuron populations and striatal cholinergic neurons. These enhancers, when used in the context of different effectors, can target (fluorescent proteins), observe activity (GCaMP) and manipulate (opto- or chemo-genetics) specific neuronal subtypes. We also validated our enhancer-AAV tools across species. Thus, we provide the field with a powerful set of tools to study neural circuits and functions and to develop precise and targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Furlanis
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Department of Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- These authors contributed equally
| | - Min Dai
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Department of Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- These authors contributed equally
| | - Brenda Leyva Garcia
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Department of Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Josselyn Vergara
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Department of Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Ana Pereira
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Department of Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Kenneth Pelkey
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Thien Tran
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Department of Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Bram L. Gorissen
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Department of Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Anna Vlachos
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Ariel Hairston
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Department of Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Shuhan Huang
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Department of Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Deepanjali Dwivedi
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Department of Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Sarah Du
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Department of Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Sara Wills
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Department of Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Justin McMahon
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Department of Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Anthony T. Lee
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Edward F. Chang
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | | | | | - Geoffrey Vargish
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Xiaoqing Yuan
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Adam Caccavano
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Steven Hunt
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Ramesh Chittajallu
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Nadiya McLean
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Lauren Hewit
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Emily Paranzino
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Haley Rice
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Alex C. Cummins
- National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-4415, USA
| | - Anya Plotnikova
- National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-4415, USA
| | - Arya Mohanty
- National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-4415, USA
| | - Anne Claire Tangen
- National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-4415, USA
| | - Jung Hoon Shin
- National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-4415, USA
| | - Reza Azadi
- National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-4415, USA
| | - Mark A.G. Eldridge
- National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-4415, USA
| | - Veronica A. Alvarez
- National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-4415, USA
| | - Bruno B. Averbeck
- National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-4415, USA
| | - Mansour Alyahyay
- Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, 23955–6900, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Tania Reyes Vallejo
- Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, 23955–6900, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Soheib
- Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, 23955–6900, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Lucas G. Vattino
- Eaton-Peabody Laboratories, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Boston, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School Boston, USA
| | - Cathryn P. MacGregor
- Eaton-Peabody Laboratories, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Boston, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School Boston, USA
| | - Emmie Banks
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Viktor Janos Olah
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Shovan Naskar
- Unit of Functional Neural Circuit, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Sophie Hill
- Department of Neuroscience, The University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Sophie Liebergall
- Department of Neuroscience, The University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Rohan Badiani
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Department of Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Lili Hyde
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Department of Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Qing Xu
- Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, 23955–6900, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Genomics & Systems Biology, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Kathryn C. Allaway
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Department of Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Ethan M. Goldberg
- Department of Neuroscience, The University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Tomasz J. Nowakowski
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
- Department of Anatomy, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- The Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Soohyun Lee
- Unit of Functional Neural Circuit, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Anne E. Takesian
- Eaton-Peabody Laboratories, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Boston, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School Boston, USA
| | - Leena A. Ibrahim
- Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, 23955–6900, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Chris J. McBain
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Jordane Dimidschstein
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Department of Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Gord Fishell
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Department of Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Yating Wang
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Department of Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
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50
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Chauhan M, Daugherty AL, Khadir FE, Duzenli OF, Hoffman A, Tinklenberg JA, Kang PB, Aslanidi G, Pacak CA. AAV-DJ is superior to AAV9 for targeting brain and spinal cord, and de-targeting liver across multiple delivery routes in mice. J Transl Med 2024; 22:824. [PMID: 39237935 PMCID: PMC11375878 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05599-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Highly efficient adeno associated viruses (AAVs) targeting the central nervous system (CNS) are needed to deliver safe and effective therapies for inherited neurological disorders. The goal of this study was to compare the organ-specific transduction efficiencies of two AAV capsids across three different delivery routes. We compared AAV9-CBA-fLucYFP to AAV-DJ-CBA-fLucYFP using the following delivery routes in mice: intracerebroventricular (ICV) 1 × 1012 vg/kg, intrathecal (IT) 1 × 1012 vg/kg, and intravenous (IV) 1 × 1013 vg/kg body weight. Our evaluations revealed that following ICV and IT administrations, AAV-DJ demonstrated significantly increased vector genome (vg) uptake throughout the CNS as compared to AAV9. Through the IV route, AAV9 demonstrated significantly increased vg uptake in the CNS. However, significantly fewer vgs were detected in the off-target organs (kidney and liver) following administration of AAV-DJ using the IT and IV delivery routes as compared to AAV9. Distributions of vgs correlate well with transgene transcript levels, luciferase enzyme activities, and immunofluorescence detection of YFP. Overall, between the two vectors, AAV-DJ resulted in better targeting and expression in CNS tissues paired with de-targeting and reduced expression in liver and kidneys. Our findings support further examination of AAV-DJ as a gene therapy capsid for the treatment of neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Chauhan
- Department of Neurology, Greg Marzolf Jr. Muscular Dystrophy Center, University of Minnesota Medical School, 420 Delaware Street SE, MMC 295, Minneapolis, Minnesota, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Audrey L Daugherty
- Department of Neurology, Greg Marzolf Jr. Muscular Dystrophy Center, University of Minnesota Medical School, 420 Delaware Street SE, MMC 295, Minneapolis, Minnesota, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Fatemeh Ellie Khadir
- Department of Neurology, Greg Marzolf Jr. Muscular Dystrophy Center, University of Minnesota Medical School, 420 Delaware Street SE, MMC 295, Minneapolis, Minnesota, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Ozgun F Duzenli
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, MN, USA
| | | | - Jennifer A Tinklenberg
- Department of Neurology, Greg Marzolf Jr. Muscular Dystrophy Center, University of Minnesota Medical School, 420 Delaware Street SE, MMC 295, Minneapolis, Minnesota, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Peter B Kang
- Department of Neurology, Greg Marzolf Jr. Muscular Dystrophy Center, University of Minnesota Medical School, 420 Delaware Street SE, MMC 295, Minneapolis, Minnesota, MN, 55455, USA
| | - George Aslanidi
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, MN, USA
| | - Christina A Pacak
- Department of Neurology, Greg Marzolf Jr. Muscular Dystrophy Center, University of Minnesota Medical School, 420 Delaware Street SE, MMC 295, Minneapolis, Minnesota, MN, 55455, USA.
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